[2024 Guide] Common Power Port Complications, Risks, and Symptoms

Bard PowerPort Lawsuits for Complications and Injuries

A PowerPort, also known as a port catheter device, is an implantable medical device designed to provide long-term access to the bloodstream.

It consists of a small injection port, usually made of metal or plastic, connected to a catheter tube.

A medical expert inserts this catheter into a large vein to facilitate the administration of medications and fluids and the withdrawal of blood.

PowerPorts are have been widely used for patients who require frequent or long-term access to their bloodstream, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, dialysis, or nutritional support.

The Bard PowerPort device catheters are said to be the most popular and widely used implantable catheter devices on the market.

Its manufacturer, Bard Access Systems, Inc., now a subsidiary of Becton Dickinson and Company, introduced the first Bard PowerPort device after its FDA approval in 2000.

The company has been marketing these devices as safe and easy to use.

However, recent reports suggest that these claims may not be true for all patients.

Some individuals who have used the Bard implanted port catheter device have reported serious injuries and complications.

As a result, injured patients are filing Bard PowerPort Lawsuits against the manufacturers of the device.

The Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) has consolidated these cases into an MDL to streamline the litigation and ensure consistent decisions.

If you or a loved one have been injured or suffered complications from using a Bard PowerPort device, you may be eligible to file a Bard PowerPort Lawsuit.

Contact us for a free consultation.

Use the chatbot on this page for a free case evaluation to find out if you qualify to file a Bard PowerPort Lawsuit instantly.

Bard PowerPort Complications and Injuries

Despite its widespread use, the Bard PowerPort catheter device has been linked to several complications.

Patients with implanted Bard PowerPort devices have reported symptoms ranging from localized pain and discomfort to more severe systemic reactions.

These complications have prompted numerous lawsuits, alleging that design flaws and material weaknesses in the devices are responsible for the adverse health effects experienced by patients.

Complications and injuries associated with the Bard PowerPort device include:

• Catheter migration
• Catheter fracture
• Deep vein thrombosis and blood clots
• Catheter infections
• Damage to blood vessels
• Other injuries

Catheter Migration

One of the significant complications associated with Bard PowerPort devices is catheter migration.

Catheter migration occurs when the device moves from its initial placement.

Various factors may cause catheter migration, including surgical errors, improper device placement, and bodily movements.

In the case of the Bard PowerPort device, the polyurethane and barium sulfate mixture (called Chronoflex AL) used on the port catheter device is alleged to be defective.

With the Bard PowerPort device, the Chronoflex AL material may dislodge and allow the device to migrate.

Symptoms of PowerPort migration may include discomfort or pain at the port site, visible protrusion or displacement of the port, and difficulty flushing or accessing the port.

In severe cases, the catheter may migrate into other body parts, leading to severe complications.

Catheter Fracture

Another risk associated with Bard PowerPort implants is catheter fracture.

The catheter is a delicate tube that connects the port to the bloodstream.

A fracture in the catheter can result in serious complications.

Catheter fractures may occur due to mechanical stress, damage during insertion, or wear and tear over time.

In the case of the Bard PowerPort devices, catheter fracture and migration occurs due to the barium sulfate and polyurethane mixture used on the catheter body.

Symptoms of catheter fracture can include difficulty flushing the port, resistance when drawing blood, and even a sensation of the catheter breaking.

This complication can result in the need for surgical intervention to remove and replace the fractured portion(s).

Infections

Infections are another possible complication linked to the Bard PowerPort.

Because these devices are in direct contact with the bloodstream, they provide a pathway for bacteria to enter the body.

Infections can occur at the port site or within the bloodstream, leading to a condition known as sepsis, which is a life-threatening medical emergency.

In the case of the Bard PowerPort, infections could arise due to the cracks and fissures present from the catheter fracturing.

Symptoms of an infection may include redness, swelling, tenderness, warmth, or discharge at the port site, fever, chills, and general malaise.

Prompt treatment is essential to prevent the infection from spreading and becoming more severe.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Blood Clots

Blood clots are a risk associated with any device that comes into contact with the bloodstream, including Bard PowerPort catheters.

The formation of blood clots, especially deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can occur around the port or within the blood vessels.

Symptoms of blood clots may include swelling, pain, or tenderness in the affected limb, as well as redness and warmth over the vein.

In severe cases, victims may experience shortness of breath and chest pain if the clot travels to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).

Other Complications

In addition to the Bard PowerPort complications mentioned above, patients with PowerPorts may experience other issues, such as:

• Catheter Blockage
• Catheter Malfunction
• Device Breakage
• Nerve Damage
• Cardiac Arrhythmia (Irregular Heart Rhythms)
• Necrosis (Death of Tissue)
• Perforations on Blood Vessels, Tissues, and Organs

Patients and healthcare providers must be vigilant in monitoring and maintaining these devices to prevent and address complications promptly.

PowerPort Complications: Symptoms To Watch For

While some symptoms mentioned above may be specific to certain complications, there are some general signs to watch for.

If you have a Bard PowerPort implantable port, be on the lookout for the following symptoms and red flags:

• Pain and Discomfort: Severe and persistent pain or discomfort at the port site or along the catheter path may indicate a complication.
• Swelling: Localized swelling or redness around the port site may signal an infection, blood clot, or another issue.
• Resistance During Flushing: If there is resistance when flushing the port, it could indicate catheter blockage or other problems.
• Fever and Chills: These are common signs of infection, which you should not ignore.
• Visible Changes: If you notice any evident changes or signs of breakage, such as the port protruding or moving, consult with your healthcare provider immediately.
• Difficulty With Blood Draws: If it becomes increasingly difficult or painful to draw blood from the port, it might be a sign of catheter damage or fracture.
• General Malaise: Feeling generally unwell, tired, or experiencing unexplained weight loss can indicate an underlying issue with your Bard PowerPort device.

Remember that these symptoms can vary in severity.

It’s always better to be cautious and consult your healthcare provider if you experience these signs.

Early detection and intervention are vital to preventing severe complications.

What Is the Bard PowerPort Lawsuit?

The Bard PowerPort, manufactured by Bard Access Systems, Inc., is a medical device that has been at the center of controversy in recent years.

Numerous patients who have had this device implanted have reported experiencing severe complications, some of which resulted in life-threatening situations.

As a result, numerous Bard PowerPort Lawsuits have been filed against the manufacturers.

The Judicial Panel on Mulitidistrict Litigation (JPML) has consolidated the Bard PowerPort Lawsuits into multidistrict litigation (MDL) to streamline the process and ensure consistent decisions across the similar cases.

If you or a loved one have been injured by a Bard PowerPort device, you may be able to seek justice and compensation.

Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation and to get in touch with a Bard PowerPort Injury Lawyer.

Use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify to file a Bard PowerPort Lawsuit instantly.

Visit this page for the latest Bard PowerPort Lawsuit updates.

The 2020 Bard PowerPort Recall (Now Terminated)

Adverse event reports eventually reached the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and sparked an investigation into the safety of Bard PowerPort catheters.

As a result, the FDA issued a Class 2 recall for certain Bard PowerPort devices on March 26, 2020.

The Bard PowerPort recall stated that a manufacturing error caused the installation of the wrong tunneler tips.

This error could cause catheter fracture, migration, breakage, malfunction, difficulties during implantation or removal procedures, and other complications.

On February 18, 2022, the FDA terminated the Bard PowerPort recall, and there are currently no active recalls for these devices.

However, many patients have suffered severe complications and are seeking compensation for their injuries.

Numerous victims have filed Bard PowerPort lawsuits against Bard Access Systems, Inc. and its parent company, Becton Dickinson and Company.

Elements of the Bard PowerPort Lawsuit

The Bard PowerPort lawsuit allegations include three primary claims:

1. Design Defects: Plaintiffs argue that the design of the Bard PowerPort is inherently flawed and poses an unreasonable risk of injury to patients. The catheter’s design allegedly makes it more prone to fracture, breakage, and other complications.
2. Failure To Warn: The Bard PowerPort lawsuit alleges that the manufacturer failed to warn patients and medical providers adequately about potential risks and complications associated with the Bard PowerPort catheters.
3. Strict Liability: Under strict liability laws, the manufacturer is responsible for any injuries their product causes, regardless of negligence or intent. Plaintiffs argue that Bard Access Systems, Inc. and Becton Dickinson and Company are strictly liable for the harm caused by their defective medical device.

Plaintiffs in the Bard PowerPort catheter lawsuit also claim that the company failed to take appropriate action to remedy the situation and continued to market and sell these devices even after being aware of potential risks.

Instead, the manufacturer blamed healthcare providers for improper placement, implantation, and use of the device.

What is the Bard PowerPort Multidistrict Litigation (MDL)?

The U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) consolidated and centralized the Bard PowerPort lawsuits into multidistrict litigation (MDL).

Multidistrict litigation (MDL) is a legal process that consolidates multiple civil cases from across different districts into one federal district court, streamlining pretrial proceedings for cases with common factual issues.

For individuals injured by the Bard PowerPort device, MDL can expedite the legal process, allowing for a more efficient resolution of numerous cases while maintaining individual lawsuit characteristics.

This process often entails bellwether trials, setting precedents and potentially guiding settlement discussions for all related cases.

Hon. David G. Campbell of the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona presides over the Bard PowerPort MDL (MDL 3081).

Judge Campbell scheduled the first case management conference on November 16, 2023, in the federal court for the District of Arizona.

What is the Average Bard PowerPort Settlement Amount?

The Bard PowerPort MDL is in its early stages, and Bard PowerPort injury lawyers expect the number of cases to grow in the coming months.

While there have been no settlements reached as of now, lawyers estimate that the average Bard PowerPort settlement could range between $10,000 to over $250,000, depending on the severity of injuries and other factors.

These estimates are merely projections based on prior results in product liability lawsuits.

These settlement projections are by no means a guarantee of financial compensation in the Bard PowerPort Lawsuit.

Reach out to an experienced Bard PowerPort Injury Lawyer for insight on your case.

Do You Qualify for the Bard PowerPort Lawsuit?

If you or a loved one have experienced injuries or complications related to using a Bard PowerPort device, you may be eligible to file a Bard PowerPort lawsuit.

To determine if you qualify, consider the following steps:

• Seek Medical Treatment: If you are experiencing symptoms or complications related to your PowerPort, seek immediate medical attention. Your health should always be your top priority.
• Gather Evidence: Collect all relevant medical records, including the details of your Bard PowerPort implantation, any complications you’ve experienced, and the treatments you’ve received. This information will be essential for your potential lawsuit.
• Consult With Legal Counsel: It’s essential to consult with an experienced attorney who specializes in medical device lawsuits. They can evaluate your case, help you understand your rights, and guide you through the legal process.
• Assess Damages: Your attorney will help you assess the damages you have suffered due to Power Port complications. They can include medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more.
• File a Claim: If you and your attorney determine that you have a valid case, you can proceed to file a Bard PowerPort lawsuit. Your attorney will handle all legal aspects of the case on your behalf.

Legal proceedings can be lengthy and complex, but they are essential in holding medical device manufacturers accountable for the safety of their products.

There may also be deadlines for filing a lawsuit, so it’s crucial to act quickly if you believe you have a case.

Our Bard PowerPort Injury Lawyers are here to help you seek justice and compensation for your injuries.

TorHoerman Law: Your Bard PowerPort Lawyer

PowerPorts have significantly improved the quality of care for many patients, but they are not without their complications.

The Bard PowerPort implantable port catheter device has been linked to severe health problems and complications.

Understanding the risks and symptoms associated with these devices is crucial for your health and well-being.

If you or a loved one have suffered complications from a Bard PowerPort implant, don’t hesitate to take action to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.

Contact TorHoerman Law today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify to file a Bard PowerPort Lawsuit instantly.