12 Jun The Fight for Accountability: Updates on the Bard PowerPort Lawsuit
Bard PowerPort is used to administer medication intravenously into a big vein and the heart. It can also be used for blood withdrawal. It is a plastic disc that is put beneath your skin, usually in the upper half of your body.
While undergoing operative treatments, the veins need to be accessed often. So to avoid repeatedly piercing your arm with needles, a port is used which protects your delicate veins. Leaving a minor scar, it is removed following the therapy.
However, like various other medical devices, the Bard PowerPort has been concluded dangerous by the FDA through its research and reports. Many complaints have been filed stating the breakage and leakage of these ports resulted in serious injuries.
The parent company Bard Access Systems Inc., has failed to inform patients about the potential risks even after getting multiple reports of injuries caused. Therefore, many patients have decided to file a Bard PowerPort lawsuit against its manufacturers by looking at its faulty nature.
The article looks into the updates and information on Bard PowerPort, the lawsuit, and the potential harms of using the device.
Concealing the Problems: But How?
The problems surrounding the device came to light in the past 5 years, but it has been manufactured and used for more than 15 years. One might wonder how exactly is that possible.
According to Consumer Safety, the FDA has a process named 510(k). Here the company has to state the intent to market the produced device. It should be determined as “substantially similar” to other market devices by the organization.
Based on an investigation, the intent of Bard PowerPort was cleared once it was found similar to other products. This included the device under the Alternative Summary Report program, which allowed a private reporting of device failures to the FDA. This then refrained the negative reports from coming out in public.
The Ever-Increasing Lawsuits
One hundred sixteen active lawsuits are pending in the court as of April 2024. It all started in March 2020 when the FDA posted a notice against the device’s models containing incorrect tunneler tips.
According to TorHoerman Law, the lawsuits have been merged into MDL in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona. Judge David G. Campbell is reviewing the MDL.
It is estimated that a Bard PowerPort lawsuit payout ranges from $10,000 to $250,000, depending on the individual’s damages and the route of the action. However, they are just estimations based on previous product liability lawsuits and hence do not guarantee compensation.
Bard PowerPort: Injuries and Side Effects
Migration and fracturing of the catheter can result in the following injuries:
- Bacterial growth and illnesses
- Embolism of pieces into the heart or arteries
- Blood Clots
- Arterial leaking
- Cardiac perforation
According to Drugwatch, side effects from complications of Bard PowerPort can lead to:
- Difficulty in breathing
- Swelling
- Fever
- Inflammation
- Kidney problems
Sometimes, the fracturing of the catheter results in the spreading of pieces into blood vessels. Surgery then has to be performed to remove them from the body.
And if the issue of migration has occurred it may result in severe physical damage. Patients may suffer hemorrhage, infection, neurological complications, and shoulder or neck pain.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How is medication or fluids delivered through the PowerPort?
Healthcare professionals access the port using a special needle that punctures the skin and connects to the port. Medications, fluids, or blood products are then infused through the needle into the port, allowing them to reach the bloodstream directly.
Can I swim or bathe with a PowerPort?
Yes, one of the advantages of a PowerPort is that it is placed under the skin, allowing you to swim or bathe without any restrictions. However, it is essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding maintenance and care.
How long can a PowerPort stay in place?
The duration for which a port-a-catheter remains in place varies depending on individual circumstances and treatment needs. It can be used for weeks, months, or even years. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate duration based on your specific situation.
How is PowerPort removed?
The removal of a PowerPort is a relatively simple procedure. It involves local anesthesia to numb the area, followed by the removal of the port through a small incision. The procedure is typically quick and associated with minimal discomfort.
The decision to undergo port placement should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional. One should consider factors such as treatment cost, type, schedule, and other relevant medical conditions.
It is essential to approach this decision-making process with thorough consideration and guidance from a medical expert looking at the potential risks associated with it.
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