Comparison of IVC Filter Brands

The number of caval filters that are installed surgically each year has grown in record numbers.  This is in part due to the evolution of the IVC filter.  New designs and materials have increased the durability and improved the function of these tiny filters but some patients are filing Gunther Tulip IVC filter death claims, noting the device caused them or a loved one severe injury/death.  There are several varieties available today, and your surgeon can recommend one that will work best for their patient and their health.

Simon Nitinol Filter – This was the first of this type of filter on the market.  It has base legs that feed up into an area made of loops to catch clots.  It has a record of limited complications and the nitinol is flexible at room temperature which makes it easy to insert.  It conforms back to its shape once at body temperature.

Titanium Greenfield –  This is an IVC with the familiar cone-shape that so many of these filters have.  It has 6 legs that attach to a base.  It is a little larger than the Simon Nitinol filter and needs a larger insertion point.  The filter originally moved and twisted too much, so the legs were each given a little curve to help it adjust and stabilize.

Vena Tech LGM – Approved by the FDA in 1989, this filter has a conical shape like many of the others.  It has 6 legs that have stabilizers that protrude off the ends to help stabilize the filter once in the vein.  This particular filter has had some issues with catching clots and medical professionals are aware of the concerns.  Not all filters will be 100 percent perfect, so there is a risk factor with each.

Gianturco Roehm Bird’s Nest – This filter strays away from the common cone shape.  It has 2, v-shaped struts that support a tangled net of tiny wires.  It is made of biocompatible stainless steel, and it generally a bit harder to place than the other filters due to the tiny net of wires that can prolapse upon insertion.

Crux Filter – This filter looks like a tiny net, but is a double looped helical structure.  It has hooks on the end for retrieval.  There are two sizes available, and they are currently going through clinical trials by the FDA.  This is considered an optional filter.  There are both optional and permanent IVC filters available to patients.

Gunther Tulip – The Gunther Tulip filter is the generic cone-shape IVC filter.  It has 4 legs and 12 wires total in the apparatus.  The filter is made of Conichrome.  It has no retrieval rate set yet, but studies are being performed on retrievals using this filter.  It has been approved by the FDA for permanent use.

G2 – This is also a cone shaped filter and has 6 legs stemming from a base.  It has small fixation hooks that make it easy to retrieve.  In fact, studies show that the G2 filter has a 95 percent success rate.  The FDA has stated that there have been complications with this type of filter, but each filter has had both success and failures.

Some patients have experienced serious and life-threatening side effects when their IVC filter broke or migrated from its original position causing organ damage and even death. Speak with your physician about the risks and benefits of these devices. If you have suffered an injury from your IVC filter device, contact us today to learn if you are able to file an IVC filter lawsuit seeking redress for your injuries.