Bard PowerPort Complications
Common Bard PowerPort complications include blood clots, cardiac punctures and bleeding. These severe health effects are associated with recalled Bard PowerPort devices. Other Bard PowerPort recall injuries may include infection, respiratory issues and organ damage.
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What Are Bard PowerPort Complications?
Bard PowerPort complications involve damage to the implantable catheter device caused by high medication flow rates and brittle tubing. The Bard PowerPort catheter is prone to fractures, which result in bacterial build-up and a loss of integrity.
A combination of the flawed material and degradation by bacteria leads to breakage in the catheter. During use, tiny plastic fragments break free into the bloodstream. These plastic shards can puncture blood vessels and sensitive organs, such as the heart.
Injuries from Bard PowerPorts range from minor to severe, including bloodstream infections, pulmonary embolisms, hemorrhages and more. The device is also prone to migration from its implantation site. These complications have led to permanent injuries and wrongful death.
Many patients are filing Bard PowerPort lawsuits for damages they received from the device. Family members of those who have died after using the Bard PowerPort can file a wrongful death claim. These lawsuits are being consolidated into multidistrict litigation.
Common Bard PowerPort Complications
The Bard PowerPort design defects may lead to medical issues such as breathing difficulty, abnormal heart rhythms and more. The complications patients experience depend on where the plastic fragments have damaged parts of the body.
- Abnormal heart rate
- Breathing difficulty
- Bruising
- Confusion
- Drainage at the port site
- Fever
- Inflammation
- Kidney problems
- Swelling
Many complications from a faulty Bard PowerPort relate to infection, such as fever, confusion or inflammation. While some issues are reversible with treatment, others, such as kidney damage, are more permanent.
Serious Complications of Bard PowerPort Devices
Serious complications of Bard PowerPorts involve issues that could indicate organ damage, such as abnormal heart rate and urinary changes. As catheter fragments enter the bloodstream, they can puncture organs and rupture blood vessels.
- Arrhythmia
- Bloody cough
- Chest pain
- Confusion
- Fever
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Urinary changes
Because the Bard PowerPort is susceptible to bacteria, infection can be a severe side effect. Without treatment, an infection in the bloodstream can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition that affects the entire body.
Types of Injuries Caused by Defective PowerPort Devices
The most significant injuries caused by defective PowerPort devices are punctures to sensitive organs, such as the heart and kidneys. This type of injury can result in sudden organ failure, which can be challenging to treat.
- Bleeding (hemorrhage)
- Blood clots (embolism and thrombosis)
- Death
As fractured pieces of the catheter travel in the bloodstream, they can damage and rupture blood vessels, causing bleeding. Depending on location, if this bleeding occurs in an artery that feeds a sensitive organ, such as the brain or lungs, it can be fatal.
Similarly, plastic fragments from defective devices can promote the formation of blood clots. When a blood clot forms within a blood vessel, it is called thrombosis. An embolism occurs when a piece of the clot breaks off and travels elsewhere. In the lungs, a pulmonary embolism can make breathing difficult or painful. If not treated quickly, the loss of oxygen can result in death.
Reports also indicate that the Bard PowerPort can move or migrate from its implantation site. As it progresses, the flexible tubing attached to the device can cause damage while traveling out of the blood vessels. Depending on the severity of the injury, emergency surgery may be necessary to remove the device and prevent further damage.
Can PowerPort Complications Be Prevented?
You can prevent complications from a Bard PowerPort by being aware of the potential issues and talking to your doctor about possible complications. You can check the history of Bard PowerPort recalls and identify whether your device model may have been affected.
- During treatment, ask your nurse or doctor about the status of your PowerPort.
- Identify signs of infection, such as fever or inflammation.
- Keep the PowerPort site clean by following directions from your provider.
- Tell your doctor about any pain or redness at the PowerPort site.
- Watch for any bruises, other signs of bleeding or changes in your urine.
Ask your provider whether your device has been recalled and whether it should be removed or replaced. Knowing the signs of Bard PowerPort complications could save your life.
When to See a Doctor
If you have a Bard PowerPort, you are likely in active treatment and already see your doctor on a set schedule. However, if complications arise between your treatment cycles, you should know when to see your doctor outside of scheduled visits.
- Concerns that your PowerPort may be malfunctioning or dislodged
- Fever, confusion, pain or swelling
- New changes to existing symptoms, such as increased cough
- Signs of bleeding or blood clots, such as bruises or leg pain
The sooner you see a doctor, the more likely they can reverse or prevent any further damage caused by a Bard PowerPort. Keep your provider’s emergency contact number available in case of a sudden severe issue, and have a plan if you need a ride to the hospital.
Calling this number connects you with a Drugwatch representative. We will direct you to one of our trusted legal partners for a free case review.
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