Bard PowerPort ClearVue Implantable Port, often referred to as PowerPort, is marketed as a catheter port and placed below a person's skin to facilitate the delivery of chemotherapy drugs for patients diagnosed with cancer or other medical conditions.

The medicine goes into the bloodstream via a small tube known as the catheter. The catheter is made from Chronoflex, a mixture of both polyurethane polymer and barium sulfate.

The barium sulfate, however, has caused problems with the stability of the catheter. Specifically, the chemical has caused the catheter to degrade and fracture which has resulted in significant medical problems for patients.

Troubling trends

Several years ago, doctors and other healthcare providers began to report the injuries from the PowerPort to the manufacturer.

Such injuries included injury from catheter migration, catheter perforation of body parts, and infection. All were allegedly due to the deformation of the catheter tube.

Lawsuits

Many parties have since taken legal action against Becton Dickinson, CR. Bard and subsidiaries, known as the defendants. The complaints allege that the defendants were aware of the potentially damaging problems and significant failures associated with the Port and failed to:

• Provide adequate warnings to patients about the increased possibly of complications
• Modify the PowerPort's design to make it safer for users
• Recall the device from the market

Injured parties have sought significant damages, including punitive damages, for injuries stemming from the above.

If you or a loved one has suffered injury as a result of using the Bard PowerPort, seeking legal help to determine potential compensation options is advised. Don't delay, as compensation recovery for these types of lawsuits typically have a timeframe in which to file.