Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filters are small, cage-like
devices implanted in the IVC vein of patients who are at risk of bloods clots,
but are not able to use anticoagulants (blood thinners). The devices are
designed to stop a rising blood clot before it reaches the heart or lungs of a
patient.
But unfortunately enough, these filters have reached a high
level of controversy, as the FDA has reportedly received thousands of adverse
event reports involving the metal devices.
Severe complications
include:
- Filter fracture
- IVC perforation
- Damage to vital organs (i.e. lungs and heart)
- Heart blockage
- Death
Symptoms of IVC
malfunctioning:
- Abdominal or back pain
One of the most commonly occurring signs of a IVC filter
migration is abdominal and back pain. This can occur as a result of the IVC
traveling throughout your blood vessels and lodging itself in an organ or other
vein.
If the pain correlates with the specific bodily movement,
then the patient must confirm from his doctor to ensure that the filter has not
moved from its intended location.
- Pain in lower extremities
The filters are intended to prevent clots in the legs and
pelvis from traveling up to the lungs and causing pulmonary embolism. Because
of this, pain in the legs can be interpreted as an issue of their DVT, but
extreme pain should not rule out filter migration or perforation.
- Symptoms in the heart area
Symptoms like the ones below can be felt if the filter has
fractured and one of its struts has traveled into the heart:
- Chest pain
- Neck pain
- Confusion
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Shortness of breath
- Abnormally rapid heart rate
If the IVC filter remains embedded in the heart, then the
following symptoms can be experienced:
- Cardiac tamponade
- Hole in the heart
- Heart rhythm problems
- Stroke
- Hemorrhaging
- Internal bleeding
Dealing with these injuries and trauma often calls for a
legal case. The victims are reported to have claimed for settlements against
the injuries and sufferings caused. IVC Filter Litigation can be contacted for
claiming financial compensation for IVC filters. Contact them on www.ivcfilterlitigation.info/
or call on 1(855) 631-1338 for more details.
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