Trauma Patients Do Not Benefit from Prophylactic IVC Filters, Study Suggests

Parker Waichman LLP, a national law firm dedicated to protecting the rights of victims injured by defective drugs and medical devices, is commenting on a new study evaluating the use of inferior vena cava (IVC) filters. The study, entitled, €œProphylactic Inferior Vena Cava Filter Placement Does Not Result in a Survival Benefit for Trauma Patients,€ and published in the [Annals of Surgery](http://journals.lww.com/annalsofsurgery/Abstract/2015/10000/Prophylactic_Inferior_Vena_Cava_Filter_Placement.4.aspx), looked at whether the prophylactic use of IVC filters had an effect on mortality and venous thromboembolic (VTE) events in trauma patients. The authors found that high rates of prophylactic IVC filters in trauma patients are not associated with reduced mortality. Additionally, use of the devices in these patients is linked to a higher risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) events.

In conducting the study, the researchers pointed to increased use of IVC filters to prevent VTE in trauma patients, who are prone to such events. The authors noted that although IVC filter use has been on the rise, there is little data showing that the devices lead to favorable outcomes. IVC filters are intended to prevent blood clots from reaching the lungs. Using these devices preemptively in patients who do not have a history of VTE, however, is €œcontroversial€, the authors state. According to the study, potential complications of IVC filters include:

€¢ Device migration €¢ Filter penetration €¢ Filter fracture €¢ IVC perforation €¢ IVC thrombosis €¢ PE (despite filter use)

The authors concluded that €œPlacement of an IVC filter does not reduce the risk of mortality in trauma patients at the hospital level. Prophylactic placement of an IVC filter is associated with an increased risk of subsequent DVT occurrence.€

€œThe firm is committed to keeping up-to-date with the latest research on IVC filters and other medical devices,€ said Matthew J. McCauley, Senior Litigation Counsel at Parker Waichman. €œBased on this study, it appears that the use IVC filters in certain situations may present serious risks without any benefits.€

Parker Waichman comments that the Bard IVC filter has sparked safety concerns in light of an [NBC News](http://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/did-blood-clot-filter-used-thousands-americans-have-fatal-flaw-n384536) investigation. In September, NBC reported that the Bard Recovery filter was associated with 27 deaths over a decade. Questions were also raised about whether Bard knew about the life-threatening risks while selling the device.

Parker Waichman continues to offer free legal consultations to victims who suffered injuries related to the use of an IVC filter. For more information, please visit the firm's [Bard IVC Filter Side Effects page](http://www.yourlawyer.com/topics/overview/bard-ivc-filters) or, for a free case evaluation, call 1-800-LAW-INFO (1-800-529-4636).

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