The Cordis TrapEase IVC filter is supposed to be permanent, but studies have linked it to a 50% risk of fracture within four years. In another study, researchers warned about an “extremely high risk” of fracture within 2-3 years.
What You Can Do & How We Can Help
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently evaluating IVC filter cases in all 50 states, regardless of whether you have been injured or not. If you or somebody you know was implanted with an IVC filter, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Defective Medical Device Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
Overview
TrapEase is a star-shaped wire device that is implanted in the inferior vena cava (IVC) to catch blood clots before they get into the heart or lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism. It is made by Cordis Corporation.
What is the problem?
TrapEase is a rigid implant that is supposed to be permanent. Under pressure, it can fracture and broken pieces can travel in the bloodstream. These pieces can perforate the vena cava, heart, lungs, and other vital organs.
TrapEase Linked to 50% Fracture Risk
In November 2011, JAMA Internal Medicine published a study linking TrapEase with a 50% risk of fracture.
The conclusions were based on data from 20 people who were implanted with TrapEase between November 2002 and July 2006. After an average of 50 months (about four years), 10 filters (50%) were fractured.
Furthermore, about two-thirds of the filters were fractured after four years, suggesting the risk increases over time. Two patients suffered multiple fractures.
The researchers said patients “are at extremely high risk of strut fracture as early as 2 to 3 years” after the TrapEase is implanted. No life-threatening complications occurred in this study, but they have been reported in other studies.
TrapEase Side Effect Reports
In 2008, a case report described a 43 year-old woman who went into cardiopulmonary arrest and died after being implanted with the TrapEase. An autopsy discovered the filter embedded inside her heart and her death was blamed on ventricular tachycardia.
In 2005, a case report described a 29 year-old man was implanted with TrapEase after a car accident. Unfortunately, the filter perforated his vena cava and he developed cardiac tamponade.
Safety Risks of TrapEase IVC Filter
- Fracture
- Embolization of broken pieces
- Migration and tilt
- Organ damage (heart, lungs, kidneys, etc.)
- Perforation of the vena cava
- Internal bleeding (hematoma)
- Irregular heart rhythm
- Blood clots in the legs
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
- And more
TrapEase Class Action
Our lawyers are not currently filing a TrapEase class action. Instead, we are pursuing individual lawsuits against Cordis Corporation.
Do I have a TrapEase Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is evaluating IVC filter cases in all 50 states, regardless of whether you were injured or not. If you or someone you know received an IVC filter implant, please contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit.
Please use the form below to contact our Defective Medical Device Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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