Multiple lawsuits claim that Bard PowerPort implanted port catheters can degrade and cause serious injuries in patients using them for intravenous therapy. These implanted port catheters are used for the administration of medications, fluids, and other medical treatments, including chemotherapy.
The port is implanted under the skin, often in the chest area, to provide a central access point for medical treatments. It consists of a port and a catheter, and it is used to deliver medications, chemotherapy, or other fluids directly into the bloodstream. This method is preferred in cases where prolonged or frequent intravenous treatments are required, because the implanted port reduces the need for repeated needle sticks.
Bard Implanted Port Catheter Lawsuit Injuries
Bard Implanted Port Catheters have been subject to lawsuits alleging the catheters can degrade, fracture, and migrate through the bloodstream. The lawsuits against the manufacturer of the port catheters, C.R. Bard, Inc., allege that the company failed to adequately warn patients and healthcare providers about these risks and that they may have been negligent in the design, manufacture, or marketing of the device. As a result, patients claim the catheters have caused serious injuries, including:
- Thromboembolism (life-threatening blood clots)
- Pulmonary embolism
- Death
- Infections of the bloodstream
- Sepsis
- Vessel or organ damage from catheter fragment migration
- Arrhythmia
- Stroke
- Injuries related to erosion of the port, a flipped port, or leakage from the port or catheter
How Do PowerPort Catheters Fail?
Patients allege that the PowerPort’s defect is related to the composition of the catheter. The PowerPort catheter is made from silicon and a polyurethane mixture called Chronoflex AL. This polyurethane mixture contains barium sulfate to allow the catheter to be seen on medical imaging such as MRIs.
However, claimants allege that the Chronoflex AL used in PowerPort catheters contains a high quantity of barium sulfate. This is a problem because barium sulfate can degrade polyurethane. Therefore, the barium sulfate in the Chronoflex can slowly break down the polyurethane in the catheter and compromise the integrity of the catheter. Lawsuits allege that pockets of barium sulfate and air can form throughout the implanted port catheter, leading to a brittle catheter full of fissures and cracks that is at a high risk of degradation.
Issues related to compromised PowerPort catheters include:
- Fracture, Dislocation, and Migration: Some patients have experienced the migration or dislocation of the Bard PowerPort catheter from its intended location. This can cause serious injuries to organs and blood vessels, along with failure to deliver medications or treatments.
- Blood Clots: Blood clots can form around the device or within the catheter, potentially blocking the flow of medications and migrating throughout the bloodstream to cause life-threatening thromboembolisms.
- Infections: Infections can occur at the site of the implant or within the bloodstream. These infections can be severe and life-threatening, particularly in patients with compromised immune systems.
- Device Malfunction: There have been instances where the Bard PowerPort has malfunctioned. Malfunctions can include flipped port, erosion of the port, leakage from the port or catheter, and crack or kink in the catheter. These malfunctions pose a serious injury risk to patients and can also disrupt a patient’s treatment plan.
- Surgical Complications: Surgical procedures to remove the Bard PowerPort port or migrated catheter can also result in complications, such as vessel damage and bleeding.
What You Need to Know If You Have Suffered a Bard PowerPort Implanted Port Catheter Injury
If you or a loved one has been injured by complications related to a Bard PowerPort catheter, here are some important things to consider:
- Consult Your Medical Provider: If you experience any pain, discomfort, or signs of infection related to your Bard PowerPort implanted port catheter, seek immediate medical attention. Your health should be your top priority.
- Legal Consultation: If you believe that your complications were a result of a defective Bard PowerPort, consider consulting with an attorney who specializes in medical device litigation. We can provide guidance on whether you have a valid claim.
- Documentation: Keep detailed records of your medical treatment, including any complications, surgeries, or treatments related to the Bard PowerPort. This documentation can be valuable in building your case.
Minnesota Implanted Port Catheter Injury Attorneys
The Minneapolis Medical Device Attorneys at Goldenberg Lauricella have successfully represented patients injured by defective medical devices for over 37 years. We have the experience you need to successfully pursue compensation for your implanted port catheter injuries. Contact us today for a free catheter injury lawsuit consultation.