Boston University School of Medicine researchers have discovered that only a small amount of patients with failing IVC filters have had the filters removed. The study found that between the years of 2003 and 2011, over 650 filters had been implanted into patients, but only roughly 80 of those filters were successfully removed after failing. Even more staggering, the study found that 18 percent of patients were not able to have their filters removed successfully. With IVC filters, their use is temporary, between 29 and 54 days, and should be removed to reduce the risk of an IVC filter injury.
Why are IVC Filters Dangerous?
IVC filters are dangerous for many reasons if they are left in a patient’s body for too long. For example, the filter could alter their position and become wedged in a place where it is not intended to be. This could result in the filter becoming ineffective, or worst, cause injury to internal organs. The filter could pierce or erode into the veins connected to the heart, causing permanent damage to this vein. Fragments of the IVC filter can break off, travel in the bloodstream, and severely damage the heart or lungs, resulting in permanent or fatal damage. The filter can also become clogged with clots and block blood-flow from the lower body into the heart, resulting in the exact injury that the filter sets out to stop from happening. Even more dangerously, your surgeon may be incapable of removing the IVC filter, particularly if it is broken off from where it is supposed to be. If this is the case, long-term problems can result, including inflammation, lingering pain, ulcers, and circulation complications in the limbs.
Is Removal of My IVC Filter Safe?
Removing the filter is a simple procedure. However, the longer the filter stays in place, the tougher it can be to remove. Typically, a patients IVC filters can be removed if the removal is within some months after it is placed within the body. The BUSM study shows that it is possible for about 80% of people to have their filter removed. Although the removal is thought to be safe, doctors and surgeons may have their patient begin taking blood thinners to avoid pulmonary embolism after the removal of the filter. It is vital to take this medicine precisely as recommended if this is the case.
The most common reasons that the filter cannot be removed are:
- It gets stuck to the wall of the IVC that is holding the filter.
- It becomes filled with large blood clots and cannot be moved.
- You are not getting the right dose of blood thinner, and may need to see your doctor on possible ways to get around the removal of the filter.
Contact an IVC Filter Lawyer
If you or someone you know has suffered harmful side effects after the inserting of IVC Filters, you may be able to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost income and pain and suffering, among other losses. Our firm is working with experienced IVC Filter lawyers, who are investigating these cases. They may be able to file an IVF Filter lawsuit for you and they charge no fee unless you win an award or settlement. For a free (no obligation) case evaluation, call our toll free number at 1-800-992-6878 or fill out a contact form online.
Paul d’Oliveira
Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.
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