Bard PowerPort ClearVue Implantable Ports are catheters (small tubes) used to deliver intravenous medications such as chemotherapy drugs into the bloodstream. They can also be used for blood transfusions and parenteral infusions.
Dangers associated with the PowerPorts have recently come to light. Problems with their design and manufacturing have resulted in many patient injuries and deaths.
Common Bard PowerPort Catheters Health Problems
Several common signs of problems with Bard PowerPort catheters include:
- Pain and swelling in the area of the catheter
- Pain elsewhere in the body
- Fever, chills and body aches, which can indicate an infection
- Difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat, chest pain and other symptoms of a blood clot
- Heart arrhythmias
How Bard PowerPorts Cause Injury
Bard PowerPort catheters are made with Chronoflex, a polyurethane polymer. One substance, called barium sulfate, used in the Chronoflex is found to cause deterioration of the tube, resulting in complications such as:
Catheter Fractures
Pieces break down and enter a patient's bloodstream. From there, blood clots, deep vein thrombosis and damage to the heart, lungs and other organs can occur.
Infections
The buildup of bacterial matter or pathogens in the catheter, often as a result of tiny cracks in the catheter, has been found to result in infections that lead to serious health problems and even death.
Migration
Pieces of the broken down catheter enter the bloodstream and other parts of the body causing serious health complications.
Perforation
Fractures from the catheter has caused a perforation of internal organs due to migration of parts.
Duty Of Medical Device Manufacturers
Medical device manufacturers have a duty to create safe products and to warn consumers about the potential hazards of their devices. In the case of Bard PowerPort catheters, their failure to do so can result in needless harm.
There is growing evidence that Bard knew about these dangers and failed to address them or to warn medical providers about them. Many patients have been injured as a result.
Legal Advocates For Injured Parties And Their Families
At the Ponder Legal Group, we are committed to holding medical device manufacturers accountable when their products harm patients. If you or a loved one was injured by a Bard PowerPort, turn to us for help pursuing compensation you deserve.
Our lawyers are experienced in handling complex class action lawsuits against powerful companies and those with deep pockets. We have helped others in similar circumstances. Let us assist you with your claim.
If you suffered complications with the implantation of a Bard PowerPort catheter, please reach out to our team for guidance on your options. You may be entitled to significant compensation through a personal injury or class action claim. Our lawyers can involve the right experts to build strong evidence for your case.
Call 888-201-0303 to set up a free consult. We have convenient offices in Washington, D.C., and handle Bard PowerPort cases nationwide. If you have a question, you can also send us a confidential email.