BARD Implanted Port Catheter Lawsuit

Have You Been Injured? Speak Confidentially to Our Experienced Texas Implanted Port Catheter Injury Attorneys

If you or someone you care about has encountered complications or injuries associated with an implantable port catheter, it's crucial to stay informed about ongoing legal actions and your rights. At Laminack, Pirtle & Martines, we specialize in cases involving medical device injuries, and we're here to help you understand the current landscape of implantable port catheter lawsuits.

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Laminack, Pirtle & Martines offer contingency fee arrangements to all of our clients ensuring justice is never hindered by financial constraints.

What Is an Implantable Port Catheter?

An implantable port catheter, commonly known as a "port," is a medical device implanted under the skin, usually in the chest area. It consists of a small reservoir connected to a catheter that is inserted into a major blood vessel. Ports are often used in patients requiring frequent or long-term access to the bloodstream, such as cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, patients needing long-term antibiotic medication, or individuals in need of regular medical treatments.

Bard PowerPort Catheters: Complications, Lawsuits, and Patient Risks

Bard PowerPort catheters, crucial for delivering medications and fluids directly into the bloodstream, have been linked to a concerning number of serious adverse events reported to the FDA. These events encompass device fractures, infections, blood clots, and more, potentially resulting in life-threatening complications.

Understanding Bard PowerPort Catheter Materials and Design

Bard PowerPort catheters are primarily composed of ChronoFlex, a flexible polymer containing barium. The presence of barium in high concentrations within the polymer can contribute to its breakdown, leading to various issues such as fractures, degradation, fissures, and tubing cracking. If catheter pieces enter the bloodstream, they can cause significant internal organ damage, necessitating emergency surgery for removal and treatment.

Complications from Catheter Fractures

The PowerPort catheter tube is prone to fracturing, leading to small plastic pieces entering the vascular system, potentially causing life-threatening complications such as:

Heart attacks
Cardiac arrhythmias
Pulmonary embolism
Cardiac punctures
Strokes
Hemorrhages
Blood clots
Lacerations to tissue, blood vessels, and vital organs such as heart and lungs
Thromboembolism
Severe and persistent pain

Catheter Migration Risks

Catheter disconnection and migration associated with Bard PowerPort catheters can lead to serious side effects such as venous thrombosis and neurologic problems. Catheter migration can obstruct blood flow, cause infection, and result in organ damage. Patients experiencing catheter migration may be asymptomatic, complicating diagnosis and treatment. Common symptoms include neck, shoulder, chest, or ear pain, heart palpitations, and others.

Complications from Catheter Infections

Broken areas of the PowerPort may allow bacteria to enter a patient’s bloodstream and cause infections, leading to complications such as:

Bacterial bloodstream infections
severe swelling, necrosis around the PowerPort
sepsis.

Common symptoms of infection include fever, chills, inflammation, redness, swelling or pain around the catheter site, drainage or pus, skin discoloration, numbness, and confusion.

A Range of Affected Products

Bard manufactures several products in the PowerPort line that have been associated with serious injuries following device fractures or infections. Some of these include:

Bard Power-Injectable Implantable Ports (PowerPorts®)
BardPort®, SlimPort®, And X-Port® Implanted Ports
PowerPort Implantable Port
PowerPort ClearVUE Slim Implantable Port
PowerPort ClearVUE isp Implantable Port
PowerPort Duo MRI Implanted Port
PowerPort MRI Implanted Port
Titanium Low-Profile Port
Peritoneal Titanium Port
PowerPort duo MRI Implantable Port

Allegations Against Bard

Port catheters were first developed in 1982, with the Bard PowerPort gaining FDA approval and entering the market in 2000.

It is alleged that Bard was aware of PowerPort catheter fractures, migrations, infections, and blood clots since its introduction in 2000. However, Bard's failure to inform patients, doctors, and hospitals of these complications and Bard’s failure to recall the product promptly resulted in serious injuries and deaths, prompting affected individuals and their families to seek justice through lawsuits.

Seeking Compensation for Bard PowerPort Injuries

Individuals who have experienced injuries or complications following the implantation of a Bard PowerPort catheter may be entitled to compensation. These complications can significantly affect the quality of life, making it essential to hold Bard accountable for the failures of its device.

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries or complications due to an implantable port catheter, you may qualify for compensation. Potential damages you may recover include:

Medical Expenses: Reimbursement for both past and future medical costs associated with your injuries.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress resulting from complications.
Wrongful Death: In cases where a loved one has passed away due to port catheter complications, you may pursue a wrongful death claim.

When Should I Seek Legal Assistance for Bard PowerPort Complications?

Each state sets its own deadline for filing a lawsuit. Failure to file before this deadline or if your case is not tolled can result in the loss of your right to seek justice for your injuries. Therefore, it is crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible after discovering your injuries.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a PowerPort Attorney?

We offer a free initial consultation and operate on a contingency fee basis. This means that we assume all financial risks associated with your case, covering expenses such as filing fees, expert witnesses, and other costs, with no payment required until we secure compensation for you.

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Action Today

Despite numerous reported serious adverse events associated with Bard PowerPort implantation and usage, Bard continues to promote these devices as safe and effective. If you or a loved one has experienced complications or injuries due to an implantable port catheter, it is crucial to explore your legal options. You do not have to navigate these challenges alone. Contact Laminack, Pirtle & Martines today for a free consultation.

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