FDA Warns of Problems with Blood Clot IVC Filters

After receiving more than 900 reports of problems with IVC filters over the last five years, federal regulators are warning doctors to remove the filters, which are meant to prevent pulmonary embolisms, before they can break free inside the patient and do damage. 

The FDA issued a safety alert this week for inferior vena cava (IVC) filters. The IVC filters are placed inside patients to prevent blood clots from breaking free and traveling to the lungs or heart and causing a pulmonary embolism. However, the FDA is telling doctors they should remove the filters once the danger of the clot has passed, or else the filters could break free and travel through the body of the patient.

The FDA warning notes that the agency has received 921 adverse event reports involving problems with IVC filters implanted. Of those, 328 involved the filter breaking free and migrating through the body, 146 involved components breaking loose, 70 involved the IVC being perforated and 56 reports were of the filters fracturing. While the agency did not detail the types of injuries resulting due to the side effects of IVC filter failure, it did note that some of the events led to “adverse clinical outcomes” for the patients.

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The agency’s recommendations are that physicians remove the filters, which are designed to be retrievable, once the threat of pulmonary embolism has passed. The FDA warning said that all physicians are encouraged to consider the benefits and health risks of IVC filter removal for each patient.

A pulmonary embolism can occur when blood clots travel through the blood stream and becomes lodged near the lung. This can cause a sudden blockage of the artery that brings blood into the lungs, causing serious and potentially fatal injuries.

In conjunction with the FDA warning, a clinical study was published online by the Archives of Internal Medicine that highlights the high failure rate of C.R. Bard’s Bard Recovery and Bard G2 IVC filters. An editorial accompanying the article says the problem with the Bard IVC filters highlights the failures of the FDA’s 510(k) premarket approval system, which has come under heavy fire in the last year.

Researchers found that the Bard IVC filter problems appear to be both commonplace and severe, with sometimes deadly results. The clinical trial involved 80 patients who received either the Bard Recovery or the Bard G2 filters. Of those, 13 of the patients had at least one strut that was part of the IVC filter fail.

The Bard Recovery, the older of the two filter designs, was the worst, with a failure rate of 25%. Of the seven out of 28 Bard Recovery filters that failed, five of them (71%) resulted in a piece of the filter traveling to the patient’s heart. Three patients experienced life-threatening complications, and one of them died as a result.

The Bard G2 filters had a failure rate of about 12%, with six of the 52 implants fracturing. In two cases, parts of the filters broke off and traveled through the patient’s body.

Researchers pointed out that addressing the problems of failed filters could require open-heart surgery. They also noted that the patients receiving the filters generally have a much higher mortality rate than the average population, making them even more vulnerable to IVC filter problems. They also said they suspect the failure rates would have been higher if the filters would have been left in longer.

The editorial, by Dr. Rita F. Redberg, an editor with the medical journal, points out that both of the Bard IVC filters involved in the study were approved using the expedited 510(k) approval process, which only requires that a medical device be substantially equivalent to a device already on the market for approval. The filters were categorized as Class II medical devices, the same classification as mercury thermometers, and were approved without any clinical data of safety and effectiveness.

The editorial comes as FDA officials and lawmakers are considering ways to strengthen the FDA’s control of medical devices and close some of the loopholes in the 510(k) premarket approval process.

59 Comments

  • RandyMay 16, 2020 at 11:41 am

    Had a large DVT in my leg in 2010, when they put in a green filter. DVT was believed to be caused by a plane ride. No clotting issues inherent with blood. I have had no issues with the green filter still in my body but I would like evidence that I still need blood thinners. Again blood clot was caused by not moving during a plane ride.

  • MichaelMay 17, 2019 at 6:23 pm

    I have had a Greenfield since 1996. Just found out its perforated and almost closed with fatty tissue. One leg is perforated into my vertebra. I se death caused by me trusting doctors

  • DovieFebruary 11, 2019 at 7:38 pm

    My oldest sister (72y/o) had blood clots in one leg several years ago. Diagnosed with DVT ‘too many to count’. When she needed hip replacement a few years later, her doctor put the screen. That was probably a little over 20 years ago. She has never had any issues with the screen. But recently she is having spells of weakness with confusion that occurs any time she gets up walk around or especially[Show More]My oldest sister (72y/o) had blood clots in one leg several years ago. Diagnosed with DVT ‘too many to count’. When she needed hip replacement a few years later, her doctor put the screen. That was probably a little over 20 years ago. She has never had any issues with the screen. But recently she is having spells of weakness with confusion that occurs any time she gets up walk around or especially while taking a shower. She gets very weak, almost passes out, numbness on one side, partially blind in one eye... and very confused. She isn’t even able to turn off the water because she is so confused. She couldn’t remember how to turn on her washing machine a few days ago. Thankfully the symptoms subside after a few minutes. She has had multiple surgeries due to severe arthritis and doesn’t want any more surgery. Therefore it’s difficult to get her to the doctor and she definitely refuses to go to ER. Do you think this could be something to do with the filter? It has something to do with circulation because walking around brings on the spells and especially getting in a warm shower. Any advice on what to ask her family doctor? Or is this even possibly a connection to the screen?

  • JacquelineAugust 4, 2018 at 7:15 pm

    I had two blood clots in lungs (one in 2001 and a second in 2002). Prior to surgery on October 23, 2003, I had a Greenfield IVC filter placed in October 2003. Do I need to be concerned?

  • BrianJune 8, 2017 at 11:11 am

    I has a greenfield filtre put In over 14 years and I hace has so many bad Health issues ala heart, upper Gi bleeding, blood tranfusions etc. Whats should I do? Scared anda feel lo

  • MikeDecember 8, 2016 at 3:45 pm

    Linda, if you haven't already gone PLEASE go seek medical attention. One of my closest friends had similar symptoms and did not get help. Today he is on his way to the MAYO clinic hoping they can save his life. Second to that is the hope they can save at least one leg. His IVC clogged resulting in severe DVT. So again, PLEASE get yourself looked at as soon as you can.

  • RobertDecember 8, 2016 at 12:18 am

    My wife died april 2016 from pulmonary embolism. She had a Greenfield filter put in on Dec 2004. The last 2 months of her life she could hardly breath of do anything and was in pain. I'm mad as hell. No one told us of the problem with the filters. Her heart was pooling blood and clots were going to her lungs.

  • LindaNovember 10, 2016 at 1:49 am

    I have a filter in and where they implanted it 3 years ago I got a very sharp stabbing pain earlier today and it hurts like crazy. I hate going to hospital or Dr just wondering if anyone else has experienced this?

  • MeAugust 10, 2016 at 8:53 pm

    I had an ivc green field filter placed in 2003 after taking orth Vera birth control patch an just a couple of days ago I find out it has tilted I am so worried bout what's gonna happened next

  • royMay 9, 2016 at 9:22 pm

    I had a cook celect vena cava filter jnserted due to severe blood clotting.. No problems - no pain comes out in 6 months

  • MichelleMarch 7, 2016 at 9:56 pm

    I had an ivc Fillter put in, in 1996 to my understanding the filter thing was brand new then, I have several health issues, I wonder if any are related to the filter?

  • RonaldFebruary 17, 2016 at 10:47 pm

    I had a PE Jan 2011 which I believe was caused from pain Meds. The Doc said I was going to die from it.I was in Hosp. for 6days.They wanted me to take blood thinners but I refused. They said they had a temporary IVC Celect filter My PE was so bad I had very little breath. Everything was a strain to do like pulling the blankets over me when I slept!! Out of breath!!.So went home and started gettin[Show More]I had a PE Jan 2011 which I believe was caused from pain Meds. The Doc said I was going to die from it.I was in Hosp. for 6days.They wanted me to take blood thinners but I refused. They said they had a temporary IVC Celect filter My PE was so bad I had very little breath. Everything was a strain to do like pulling the blankets over me when I slept!! Out of breath!!.So went home and started getting Reiki treatments from my Wife. She learned this in Japan. She is from Sapporro. After a few months of treatments I started to feel better. So I started to go for walks 2 to 3 times a week for a few weeks. One morning a would wake up with my heart fluttering! i didn't know what the hell was going on! Days later I was getting chest pains and a fever. My wife kept telling me to go to Hosp but I didn't want to until me left leg swelled so big and painful and could not bend I finally decided I must go now!! They took Cat Scan said I had Pneumonia! Stayed in Hosp for 3 days. Came back in a week with chest pains took X- ray saw a piece of wire in Right lung! They removed old filter and insisted I put in new one and take anticoagulants because of the wire in my lung! That filter stayed in for 1 year with no problems but that anticoagulant really hurt my body especially my knees has never been the same! Docs tried to tell me I had blood disorder and had to take Blood Thinners the rest of my life with no family history. Finally I went to Blood specialist> They told me my blood was OK. I was a very active healthy person now I,m very Sedentary because of DVT and Lung damage from surgery when they finally remove the wire it bent while they grab it and pulled it out through my heart and groin. I still had heart pains today. I think I got a defective filter that was not OK.d by the FDA!!

  • BonitaJanuary 20, 2016 at 10:56 pm

    I had a heart attack in Dec. 2006. They put a stint in through the groin. I had 100% blockage in one of my main arteries. It's been so long and I don't remember a whole lot from back then. Is it possible I have the Bard insert.

  • jeanJanuary 9, 2016 at 1:46 pm

    where my titantium trap ease was inserted I 2003--- I have a lump, can it be from that---my dr says no-----but I am concerned

  • TriciaDecember 31, 2015 at 11:57 pm

    TO ALL, I have read many comments. DO NOT leave any piece of that filter in you. GET it out. Second the safest filter that we have come across that my husband has is called the Green Field.... Good luck to all of you.

  • KarenODecember 23, 2015 at 7:52 pm

    I had DVT and PE in 2007. I have had groin pain and hip pain for years. I have had feet/ankle swelling which is now a daily occurence after being on my feet. I am concerned this is a sign that my IVC filter is blocked or fractured, etc. Anyone know which test is best to show the filter? I want to ask the doc to get it checked.

  • connieDecember 22, 2015 at 10:13 pm

    I have protein c diffency hereditar . I had the filter in for over ten years or more i am on lovenox for about tenyears now but was on Coumadin ive been having extreme pain sciatica and leg pain so severe im using a walker at age 48 all i do is cry in in so much pain and with this protein c diffency im not allowed no shots in my back no surgery cuz of my clotting disorder i clot tofast and in orde[Show More]I have protein c diffency hereditar . I had the filter in for over ten years or more i am on lovenox for about tenyears now but was on Coumadin ive been having extreme pain sciatica and leg pain so severe im using a walker at age 48 all i do is cry in in so much pain and with this protein c diffency im not allowed no shots in my back no surgery cuz of my clotting disorder i clot tofast and in order to get shots in my back i have to be off any blood thinners for few days .im wondering all this extreme back pain and leg pain that im having is from the filter because im up all night in pain crying i cant get no releif .

  • DarleneDecember 21, 2015 at 7:48 pm

    I've had several DVT's including a 5 inch clot in my left thigh several years ago and an IVC filter was placed. I cannot take Warfarin. As I had a GI tract bleed and nearly died, I was never given a card with the brand or any other information that I am now being told I should have received. I've asked the vascular surgeon via letter with no response. What should I do?

  • jeanneDecember 18, 2015 at 5:35 pm

    I had a greenfield filter put in in 1997. I was 24, I have had 3 pe's since. I have blood clotting disorder deficiency I was born with, genetic. So is my filter safe? IIt's been in me 20 years. Its stainless steel, not titanium. So im trying to find out how dangerous this filter is to breaking apart. And if there is a law suit for it.

  • TinaNovember 18, 2015 at 1:31 am

    My husband had a icv filter put in when he was 19 he was in a car accident left him paralyzed he is now 35 15years never been checked Since we get a call today Showed up anonymous! Saying that he needed to have his checked out as soon as possible he can't tell if he's in pain from the chest down the only thing that scares me is about a year ago he developed a bad cough And he sometimes get s[Show More]My husband had a icv filter put in when he was 19 he was in a car accident left him paralyzed he is now 35 15years never been checked Since we get a call today Showed up anonymous! Saying that he needed to have his checked out as soon as possible he can't tell if he's in pain from the chest down the only thing that scares me is about a year ago he developed a bad cough And he sometimes get short of breath the doctors that I have took him too say that nothing wrong. Has anyone had respiratory problems associated with the filter? We are going to have an x-ray in the morning!

  • WillNovember 14, 2015 at 8:37 am

    Taking 20 MG's daily of xarelto due to DVT in leg.location groin to knee.isn't there any procedure to clean out this vein as in an artery? Dr wants to put in filter and stated medication didnt really start to work until after 6 months.I was injured while in military and 62 years.

  • JeanNovember 6, 2015 at 10:42 am

    I am 76 years old,and I am afraid.I went to the E R in July they gave me two pints of blood then I was intensive care for a few days,that is when the put the filter,I don,t remember talking to anyone about it,just was told they had to do it.I looked the dr. Up went to see him was told I have to be on it for life,that is what scares me,the dr. Told me he will not take it out,because it is two hard,[Show More]I am 76 years old,and I am afraid.I went to the E R in July they gave me two pints of blood then I was intensive care for a few days,that is when the put the filter,I don,t remember talking to anyone about it,just was told they had to do it.I looked the dr. Up went to see him was told I have to be on it for life,that is what scares me,the dr. Told me he will not take it out,because it is two hard,so here I am,with the filter and I am also on blood thinner,taking ten miler grams a day.is this going to shorten my life,what should I do

  • AlexandreaOctober 30, 2015 at 4:51 am

    I was in a car accident in 2005 and in a coma for about 4 weeks i have been dealing with a horrible syiatic nerve pain in my right leg i went to the dr and sent me to do xray and come to find out 10yrs later i had a ivc filter planted in me and it was only for temporaly use the dr never took it out and one of the wires broke off and i think its hitting one of my nerves i am in pain everyday.i need[Show More]I was in a car accident in 2005 and in a coma for about 4 weeks i have been dealing with a horrible syiatic nerve pain in my right leg i went to the dr and sent me to do xray and come to find out 10yrs later i had a ivc filter planted in me and it was only for temporaly use the dr never took it out and one of the wires broke off and i think its hitting one of my nerves i am in pain everyday.i need help to take this pain away :(

  • MichaelOctober 23, 2015 at 5:40 am

    I dont no what to do they dont wont to take it out in i been on lovanox for nine years

  • shaneOctober 19, 2015 at 9:25 pm

    OnApril 27th I gave birth to my daughter and decided to have a tubal ligation on June 17th I was scheduled to have my tubal ligation went in to the ER on June 26th when I was diagnosed with bilateral pulmonary embolism I had several small blood clots in both lungs they start me on coumadin when I had an abdomen bleed out from my tubal ligation I lost 5 liters of blood and had to have an emergency [Show More]OnApril 27th I gave birth to my daughter and decided to have a tubal ligation on June 17th I was scheduled to have my tubal ligation went in to the ER on June 26th when I was diagnosed with bilateral pulmonary embolism I had several small blood clots in both lungs they start me on coumadin when I had an abdomen bleed out from my tubal ligation I lost 5 liters of blood and had to have an emergency coumadin reverse the emergency doctors recommended me to have an IVC filter placed every since then I have been having right leg pain I have mentioned it to my doctor I have recently seen my blood Dr he have recommend me to have the IVC filter tooking out I do not have the blood clot disorder gene he also stated that I got my pulmonary embolism due to pregnancy need you to mind I have six children and never had a blood clot disorder ever until 4 months ago

  • A. MathewsOctober 5, 2015 at 11:17 am

    Had an unknown brand IVC filter put in after blood clots removed from lower leg less than 2 months ago in left artery and have constant high level pain in left groin and left side both front and back. Nearly bedridden from it. Pain agonizing. Need it out but have no way to get the right surgeon where I live. I'm afraid, in sever additional unrelenting pain and angry because I told them NO filter. [Show More]Had an unknown brand IVC filter put in after blood clots removed from lower leg less than 2 months ago in left artery and have constant high level pain in left groin and left side both front and back. Nearly bedridden from it. Pain agonizing. Need it out but have no way to get the right surgeon where I live. I'm afraid, in sever additional unrelenting pain and angry because I told them NO filter. They said it was to save my life but I believe that was wrong as the blood clots in my lower leg where there for years without moving due to a narrowed artery in my affected leg. My body self protected itself but they opened up that vien after removing the blood clots. Now it is wide open and I can't tolerate hepren. No other thinner has been tried on me. I'm more than angry and in do much additional pain to live.

  • CindySeptember 23, 2015 at 2:29 am

    Had back surgery 8/19/2015, right leg swollen double it size for what ever reason, to where the doctor ordered to have a IVC filter placed thur the groin area, from what I was to understand protect me from blood cloths, then a couple days later when they stated doing therapy, the pain in the groin area was like OMG what the heck I have to put pressure in my right groin area just to walk, I can't c[Show More]Had back surgery 8/19/2015, right leg swollen double it size for what ever reason, to where the doctor ordered to have a IVC filter placed thur the groin area, from what I was to understand protect me from blood cloths, then a couple days later when they stated doing therapy, the pain in the groin area was like OMG what the heck I have to put pressure in my right groin area just to walk, I can't cross my legs you feel the filter move and sharp pain hit like in my bladder area,,then the pressure in my chest drives me crazy then at night time I can't lay on with side due to the pressure of it that causes me to cough crazy , I have shortness of breath, lord the issues I. Experiencing from the day the put this in,, I wish I knew the issues and concerns of this filter, I would have said wait, there has to be something else, it's bad enough the severe back surgery I've went thur, then now to deal with these issues on top of trying to recover, Severe pain in groin Shortness of breath Pain in chest Pain when sleeping can't lay on either side Can't cross legs due to feeling like it's aggravating the bladder. I actually got blood work done yesterday and told doctor I want it out.. It's worth doing your research before allowing this procedure.

  • PaigeSeptember 20, 2015 at 2:31 pm

    I suffered a PE about 11 yrs ago and then 4 more clots that we know of I have a gene mutation I have two copies of two genes so I hyper clot I took lovenox for 11 years and arixtra very hi doses 70 mg aday sometimes twice daily. I hurt it made me sick .. Around 2004 I had a non removable trapeze filter put in at all my doctors requests ..I do have many other illnesses that started when I was bo[Show More]I suffered a PE about 11 yrs ago and then 4 more clots that we know of I have a gene mutation I have two copies of two genes so I hyper clot I took lovenox for 11 years and arixtra very hi doses 70 mg aday sometimes twice daily. I hurt it made me sick .. Around 2004 I had a non removable trapeze filter put in at all my doctors requests ..I do have many other illnesses that started when I was born premature then first cancer in 1981 and so one.. I went off the shots nov last year I couldn't take it anymore and still had small clots so whats the point, I went on xaralto doing ok till about three weeks ago I'm dizzy, Poor vision, headaches, run into walls and clammy sometimes at night Nd 0 sleep. I understand the filter isn't remove able but if could tell me how to go about finding out if the filter is tilted or moved or has any broken parts IDE love some help.. My cardio doc is an ass an my reg doc says I know more than him I just rant some help and feel a lil better ,..thanks you all

  • JonathanJune 10, 2015 at 10:11 pm

    After reading all of the comments and just today 6/10/15 seeing a legal infomercial regarding the blood clot filters and hearing its life threatening. Im very worried about my risks and keeping it in my leg. I had the filter placed about 3 weeks ago after i was diagnosed with 3 PE's in my lung and the drs are not sure how i got the clots in the first place. May have been a result of the prednisone[Show More]After reading all of the comments and just today 6/10/15 seeing a legal infomercial regarding the blood clot filters and hearing its life threatening. Im very worried about my risks and keeping it in my leg. I had the filter placed about 3 weeks ago after i was diagnosed with 3 PE's in my lung and the drs are not sure how i got the clots in the first place. May have been a result of the prednisone and other meds ive been takeing but was never prescribed any medication to protect me. Now not only do i have the PE's but also damage to my stomach liner and a bleeding ulcer. I was first prescribed Xerelto while in the hospital and less than 24 hours after being discharge i began to have very bloods stools and now taking Coumadin. Not sure what to do.

  • LarryJanuary 26, 2015 at 12:16 am

    I too am looking at giant veins from my knees to my chest. I have a Greenfield filter, inserted after a horrible surgery with complications when removing my colon, which was trashed by Celibrex. 18 units of blood and three major operations in three days in 2008, I am still here. I am now experiencing upper chest pain. After a series of test in ER a week ago, they think it is gull bladder problems.[Show More]I too am looking at giant veins from my knees to my chest. I have a Greenfield filter, inserted after a horrible surgery with complications when removing my colon, which was trashed by Celibrex. 18 units of blood and three major operations in three days in 2008, I am still here. I am now experiencing upper chest pain. After a series of test in ER a week ago, they think it is gull bladder problems. No stones, just, thickening of walls. I think clots are reaching my lung now and causing other organs to fail. Over the years, I have ask several doctors about removing the filter when the big ugly veins started appearing, and the consensus is that it would be much more dangerous to try to remove it after all these years. It now looks like all the hard work to walk again, after the three months on my back, post surgerys in 2008, things are coming to head. I really wanted more time to pursue my outdoor photography. I really don't know where to turn now: Larry

  • SandyDecember 27, 2014 at 11:51 pm

    Between Oct 1999 and some time in 2000, I had multiple brain surgeries and due to the length of time that I was immobile and in the ICU, I developed a DVT and pulmonary emboli, and apparently had a Greenfield Filter placed, I'm told. Presently, I have left lower leg swelling and seem to develop this occasionally when I am on my feet a lot. To my knowledge, I have not had much, if any, follow-up [Show More]Between Oct 1999 and some time in 2000, I had multiple brain surgeries and due to the length of time that I was immobile and in the ICU, I developed a DVT and pulmonary emboli, and apparently had a Greenfield Filter placed, I'm told. Presently, I have left lower leg swelling and seem to develop this occasionally when I am on my feet a lot. To my knowledge, I have not had much, if any, follow-up for this filter. Should the filter's functioning and location be checked each year or only if there is a problem?

  • FAYEJuly 30, 2014 at 4:08 am

    I hd back surgery several years age and developed a DVT. Needing another back surgery 2 years later the surgeon insisted on an IVC filter so a permanent one was inserted. This was about 5 years ago. Now the filter has become completely occluded. With the blood haing problems flowing like it should, I have been on Coumadin for several years because my entire abdomen is completely filled with varic[Show More]I hd back surgery several years age and developed a DVT. Needing another back surgery 2 years later the surgeon insisted on an IVC filter so a permanent one was inserted. This was about 5 years ago. Now the filter has become completely occluded. With the blood haing problems flowing like it should, I have been on Coumadin for several years because my entire abdomen is completely filled with varicose veins. They are big ugly, painful veins-some the size of a very large finger and some bigger- going from in my breasts all the way down my abdomen to my groin area and a few are now developing in my legs. They stick out and are much larger than any I have seen in legs. Doctors tell me there is nothing that can be done and they are shutting off my other organs causing breathing problems and heart problems. They say they will soon cause kidney and liver problems . Has anyone ever seen an abdomen completely filled with varicose or know of anyine who has? I would love to find a doctor who could actually help me rather than just shake their heads! .

  • jamiJuly 21, 2014 at 6:06 am

    I been having pain in my lungs,sides and i have a blood clot in my leg that has been there for two months now.. i been to the er and other doc and they just send me home.. im in so much pain i just want to cry... i got my filter about 5months give or take and i am nowhaving pain in my stomach as of right now.. plz ppl i need answer what should i do i have a kid and cant leave her here on earth wit[Show More]I been having pain in my lungs,sides and i have a blood clot in my leg that has been there for two months now.. i been to the er and other doc and they just send me home.. im in so much pain i just want to cry... i got my filter about 5months give or take and i am nowhaving pain in my stomach as of right now.. plz ppl i need answer what should i do i have a kid and cant leave her here on earth without a mom.. i have a blood clotting disorder..

  • kimApril 18, 2014 at 11:03 pm

    I had a greenfield filte placed in me 2003, I havve been having severe pain on my right side and was told that it was just pain from scar tissue from prior surgery's. I am really concerned now that I have read about these filters causing severe problems.shpould I have this removed?

  • TammyMarch 31, 2014 at 12:19 am

    If you have an ivc filter in now and you are on blood thinners and your blood levels are good. You need to find a Vascular doctor find out your options. Most filters now they take out if your on blood thinners.Not everybody is the same. Mine was in for 17 years. I had it removed 2013. Because of low back pain and leg pain all on the right side. The doctors told me it was permanent don't worry abou[Show More]If you have an ivc filter in now and you are on blood thinners and your blood levels are good. You need to find a Vascular doctor find out your options. Most filters now they take out if your on blood thinners.Not everybody is the same. Mine was in for 17 years. I had it removed 2013. Because of low back pain and leg pain all on the right side. The doctors told me it was permanent don't worry about it. It's not going anywhere. Well it did. O ya mine from a car accident in 1996.

  • MarkJanuary 26, 2014 at 4:41 pm

    I was involved in a motercycle deer accident and suffered severe injury but survived. I developed DVT as I recovered. After a sub dural hemotoma I had a Greenfield filter placed. I now suffer some discomfort from swelling in the legs and must sleep with legs elevated. All doctors involved recommend removal as soon as risk of DVT is past. It will eliminate risk of ulceration in my lower extremes.

  • JimAugust 8, 2013 at 9:05 pm

    I was in a coal mining accident and a Greenfield Filter was implanted, Jan. 2, 1997 . I recently had s chest X-ray and noticed the legs on the filter were twisted together. I am in question will the Greenfield filter stop any blood clots ?

  • JaneAugust 5, 2013 at 5:12 am

    Had a IVC Filter put in because I was gotten a few dvt's however the thinner were not making my blood thin so a filter was recommened. After surgery my back and groin were in serious pain. From that day I can not stand up straight without being in extreme pain. Pain in groin to hip to lower back. Pain in chest and ab. Getting pain shooting like shocks depending on which way I move. I have to walk [Show More]Had a IVC Filter put in because I was gotten a few dvt's however the thinner were not making my blood thin so a filter was recommened. After surgery my back and groin were in serious pain. From that day I can not stand up straight without being in extreme pain. Pain in groin to hip to lower back. Pain in chest and ab. Getting pain shooting like shocks depending on which way I move. I have to walk completely bent over since that day I cant move at all. Chest pains got worse. Went to ER they say they don't see anything. Went to another and they see the legs sticking out. Now I have clots in my chest when I never had them before. May be do to the fact I have not moved at all not at all for more than 45 days I am bed ridden. Doctor will not and hasn't called me back since the day of surgery nor did I receive a post op call to see how I am. I even went to ER three times and he did not show. Had to go to another ER for help and they wont help for they didn't put it in so I am still suffering. I cant get the doctor to talk to me or see me. I don't want to die.

  • michaelJuly 12, 2013 at 7:56 pm

    had a filter installed at the base of my heart and having sever pains at time and they cant find anything wrong, it was installed in 2002

  • KenJune 24, 2013 at 8:19 pm

    I had screen put in before knee operation early this year. I returned to have screen removed in a few weeks after operation and they gave up trying to remov it saying it could be harmful to remove it. Should I be concerned?

  • meJune 21, 2013 at 12:34 pm

    I have some suggestions stay off the internet looking for a solution to your MEDICAL issues and seek the advice of a MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL. I don\'t believe that the people on these pages have went to MEDICAL school, so I don\'t think that they are qualified to give you MEDICAL advice. I think you need to go to your doctors with these questions and if you don\'t like their answer get a second opi[Show More]I have some suggestions stay off the internet looking for a solution to your MEDICAL issues and seek the advice of a MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL. I don\'t believe that the people on these pages have went to MEDICAL school, so I don\'t think that they are qualified to give you MEDICAL advice. I think you need to go to your doctors with these questions and if you don\'t like their answer get a second opinion from another doctor NOT the internet!!!

  • JudyJune 4, 2013 at 10:22 am

    I have had the filter in for about 3 yrs now. I had multiple clots both legs and left lung. Can't take coumadin because it destroys my red blood cells. About the last 6 months I have been experiencing severe pain in my chest, actually feels like something moving ad when I lean forward it feels like something pressing on the front of chest. Am worried and don't know what to do because I have a bad [Show More]I have had the filter in for about 3 yrs now. I had multiple clots both legs and left lung. Can't take coumadin because it destroys my red blood cells. About the last 6 months I have been experiencing severe pain in my chest, actually feels like something moving ad when I lean forward it feels like something pressing on the front of chest. Am worried and don't know what to do because I have a bad history for developing clots. Kind of afraid. Wondering if this is causing my hands to tremble and go numb?

  • thomasApril 19, 2013 at 9:11 pm

    Had bloodclots in my lungs they put a filter in my leg its causes terrible pain in my back and leg cant walk sometimes .can this be what's happening to me.

  • bethApril 6, 2013 at 2:27 am

    back in 2007 i had a dvt. they put a greenfileld fitler in me. ever since that i been having pains. feels like it been moved. they even said it breaks up before moved to lungs it dont cause i had a meduim size clot in my lung. i heard about these filters i called a lawyer.

  • EricaFebruary 14, 2013 at 12:19 am

    I am a 27 year old female, who had a severe automobile accident in April of 2008. I was in a coma for 2 months, numerous injuries and many surgeries. Roughly two weeks after I woke up not only did the doctor put my trachea but they found a blood clot in my lung or a PE. Before I knew it I went in for surgery, where they put filters in. I never knew this was done until a few months ago when my doct[Show More]I am a 27 year old female, who had a severe automobile accident in April of 2008. I was in a coma for 2 months, numerous injuries and many surgeries. Roughly two weeks after I woke up not only did the doctor put my trachea but they found a blood clot in my lung or a PE. Before I knew it I went in for surgery, where they put filters in. I never knew this was done until a few months ago when my doctor said that the filters were never taken out. I have constant severe leg pain, can't stand, walk, sleep, work I can't do a thing without my legs killing me. I am wondering if anyone else has this issue? I can't get a damn doctor to do anything about it, even to just look into it. Any information would help thanks!

  • faithFebruary 2, 2013 at 6:53 am

    im still in constant pain from ivc filter and ive just gave up.dr told me in august i had clot in the lung and then in oct her and another dr told me they was no proof of blood clot in the lung and the filter could be took out.they claimed they couldnt take it out,another dr said it shouldnt be in there to start with,the pain the filter has caused me is making my life very miserable,my leg stays s[Show More]im still in constant pain from ivc filter and ive just gave up.dr told me in august i had clot in the lung and then in oct her and another dr told me they was no proof of blood clot in the lung and the filter could be took out.they claimed they couldnt take it out,another dr said it shouldnt be in there to start with,the pain the filter has caused me is making my life very miserable,my leg stays swelled and leg pain is terrble and feel like needles in my back and i cant walk cause of internal bleeding,ive told fda but they dont seem to care .

  • lekiaDecember 29, 2012 at 5:09 am

    I had blood clots on my lungs and leg in 2006 I had a filter placed every since I have had swelling in legs back problems unable to stand and pain in my growing area I'm at a lost because I'm only 28 years old now and dont know Who to call for help with this

  • JessicaNovember 2, 2012 at 1:27 am

    I had a gastric bypass June 7, 2011 and the doctor told I had to have a Grenbriar IVC filter placed. He would not do surgery without me having one. I had never had a blood clot or any other condition to warrant the need of a filter. He told me i would have the filter removed one year later after surgery. Going in for my annual I find out that the radiolgy department placed a permanent fliter a[Show More]I had a gastric bypass June 7, 2011 and the doctor told I had to have a Grenbriar IVC filter placed. He would not do surgery without me having one. I had never had a blood clot or any other condition to warrant the need of a filter. He told me i would have the filter removed one year later after surgery. Going in for my annual I find out that the radiolgy department placed a permanent fliter and it's too late for met to get the filter out. I am concerned as too what the medical risks are and I have two kids and I am a single parent. My daughter is 10 and my son is 18. I found out by going to the doctor that I have to go for an ultrasound on my heart due to some abnormal heart rhythems. Any suggestion as too what to do, the doctors are no help.

  • MichaelOctober 28, 2012 at 3:25 pm

    I have a Cook-Gunther-Tulip IVC filter. Implanted 2007. No follow-up by any medical staff that was involved. I'm wondering if I'm at risk. As there is a mass of information on the Internet about cases, I am at a loss to find any information that is useful. Lawyers seen to jump at me from everywhere. What to do ?

  • faithSeptember 27, 2012 at 12:22 pm

    i was told i had a blood clot in the lung and i was pestered by dr until i gave in and let them put a filter in.i have problems understanding things cause i have mental condition but i let them put the ivc filter in and while they was doing i could feel the knife cutting me cause i wasnt out good enough,since then i have had pain all over my body esp leg and back pain,i have ask for it to be took [Show More]i was told i had a blood clot in the lung and i was pestered by dr until i gave in and let them put a filter in.i have problems understanding things cause i have mental condition but i let them put the ivc filter in and while they was doing i could feel the knife cutting me cause i wasnt out good enough,since then i have had pain all over my body esp leg and back pain,i have ask for it to be took out but the hospitial dr and ceo want even respond to phone calls.its painful.,in fact day it was put in i ran a fever that night.

  • LindaSeptember 18, 2012 at 11:30 pm

    I had a filter put in and immediately started with back pain. My urine also had a horrible smell. The pain kept getting worse so they took the filter out and the pain went away. The doctor who took it out tried to tell me it was fine in the right place when he took it out. My family doctor thinks it punctured my urethra giving me the pain.

  • ressieAugust 28, 2012 at 3:08 am

    how do i find out what type of mesh was inserted into my husbands leg?

  • JimAugust 27, 2012 at 3:41 pm

    I had a blood clot (DVT) after a hip replacement 5 years ago it led to a pulminary embolism. Because I needed another hip replacement this past year my doctor recomended I have a Greenfield filter put in. Now 7 months later he recommends I have it taken out. Others doctors I have talked to say that it can be left in. I'm not sure what to do. Is there anyone that is going through this situation? I [Show More]I had a blood clot (DVT) after a hip replacement 5 years ago it led to a pulminary embolism. Because I needed another hip replacement this past year my doctor recomended I have a Greenfield filter put in. Now 7 months later he recommends I have it taken out. Others doctors I have talked to say that it can be left in. I'm not sure what to do. Is there anyone that is going through this situation? I am 56 years old and have arthritic problems.I have heard about the filters failing and have heard about alternative blood thinners that are coming on the market that make the filter unnessary.

  • robbinJune 23, 2012 at 8:23 pm

    i am having severe swelling i have to take lassix ,i cant stand on my feet all day anymore to work .i have chest pains, i wish i never had this stupid thing put in,i hear other people at the clinic complain with same problem

  • VatonaMay 3, 2012 at 10:51 am

    I had an IVC filter put in about a week ago thru the groin. Things were fine until a few days ago, when I take a step, it is painful and feels like he hit my syatic nerve , I can also feel the IVC when I walk it is very painful, I have to hold below whrere the IVC is just to walk. I called the dr. that put it in, he said should be no problem but will check it before surgery on the 11th of May. I [Show More]I had an IVC filter put in about a week ago thru the groin. Things were fine until a few days ago, when I take a step, it is painful and feels like he hit my syatic nerve , I can also feel the IVC when I walk it is very painful, I have to hold below whrere the IVC is just to walk. I called the dr. that put it in, he said should be no problem but will check it before surgery on the 11th of May. I think it has shifted!

  • KristinNovember 28, 2011 at 10:26 pm

    I had a Bard eclipse filter that migrated ,through the venacava into the bone and almast in the auorta when the doc tried to retrieve it he bent the leg and pushed it into the small intestines

  • AlejandroNovember 14, 2011 at 5:38 pm

    I've suffered from blood clots, and at the present time I'm recovering from surgery for the removal of a blood clot (DVT). I've been told by my doctor that I need an IVC filter implant. This problem runs in my family. My question is, is there a real reliable IVC filter that would not cause me any problems in the future?

  • SamSeptember 9, 2011 at 9:12 pm

    My daughter had one of these filters put in after a horrible car accident. They tried to get the filter out two months later. One of the legs of this filter had broken off and is now lodged in her vein and the doctor spent 4 hours trying to remove it with no success. Now what? Will that metal leg break clear from her vein in the future and migrate to the heart or lungs? She's having an ultras[Show More]My daughter had one of these filters put in after a horrible car accident. They tried to get the filter out two months later. One of the legs of this filter had broken off and is now lodged in her vein and the doctor spent 4 hours trying to remove it with no success. Now what? Will that metal leg break clear from her vein in the future and migrate to the heart or lungs? She's having an ultrasound in two weeks to see if the leg has moved at all.

  • DennisAugust 13, 2010 at 7:07 pm

    I was diagnosed with a pretty bad PE condition last Aug and spent a week in the hospital. When I went in my O2 was at 78%. CT scan showed that I had about 30 to 40% of both lungs were affected. I have been on blood thinners and from recent blood tests and CT scans I am doing better. As part of the treatment they put one of these things in my lower aorta. I have had one of these for nearly a year. [Show More]I was diagnosed with a pretty bad PE condition last Aug and spent a week in the hospital. When I went in my O2 was at 78%. CT scan showed that I had about 30 to 40% of both lungs were affected. I have been on blood thinners and from recent blood tests and CT scans I am doing better. As part of the treatment they put one of these things in my lower aorta. I have had one of these for nearly a year. They still can’t figure out what caused the PE in the first place but it must have been going on for some time. A couple of months ago I had sudden and severe chest pain to the left, base of my sternum. I went to the local ER and they told me that my BP was all over the place. But all indications was that my heart was fine. I told them that it felt like the filter had shifted and caused a burse or abrasion inside. They did a CT scan and said it was still there and working to block the clots. After what I have read here I am pretty scared. I am working with a Hematology Doctor and am scheduled for another set of tests. At the end of the month. After what I have read I think I would like to risk taking it out.

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