If you have experienced unexpected complications after having Filshie clips inserted for tubal ligation, you’re not alone. These small devices, designed to provide permanent sterilization, have left some women dealing with severe pain, internal bleeding, and other serious health issues that have dramatically impacted their quality of life.
When a medical device fails to perform as promised or causes unforeseen harm, you deserve justice. Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC is committed to holding manufacturers accountable for defective devices that have caused you harm—including Filshie clips. Contact our mass tort law firm today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your complications and learn how we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
What Are Filshie Clips and How Do They Work?
Filshie clips are small medical devices designed to provide permanent birth control through tubal ligation. During a laparoscopic surgical procedure, these clips are placed on the outside of both fallopian tubes, where they act as clamps to block the pathway for eggs to travel from the ovaries to the uterus.
The device works in two ways: first, the clips physically compress the fallopian tubes, making the internal space smaller and preventing eggs from passing through. Second, by compressing the living tissue, they gradually reduce blood circulation to that area, which further ensures the tubes cannot function as they did before the procedure. This dual action is intended to provide reliable, permanent sterilization.
The Filshie clip was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 1996 and has undergone several updates since then. Various companies have been involved in manufacturing and distributing these devices, including Femcare, Cooper Surgical, and Utah Medical Products.
Complications and Injuries Associated with Filshie Clips
Although they were marketed as safe and effective, Filshie clips have been linked to serious complications that were not disclosed by the manufacturers, particularly device migration. This occurs when clips move from their original placement and travel to other parts of the body. Filshie clip migration can cause significant damage to surrounding tissues and organs, leading to a cascade of health problems.
When Filshie clips migrate, they can perforate organs, cause internal bleeding, and become embedded in tissues where they don’t belong. In the most severe cases, invasive surgery is required to remove the device. Sometimes, the clips become so deeply embedded that removal becomes more dangerous than leaving them in place.
The scope of this problem is far more extensive than many people realize. Since 2017, hundreds of reports have been filed with the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database documenting Filshie clip failures. These numbers likely represent only a fraction of the actual cases.
Signs That Your Filshie Clip Has Migrated
If you received Filshie clips for tubal ligation, recognizing the warning signs of migration is vital for your health and safety. Many patients initially dismiss symptoms as normal post-surgical recovery or unrelated health issues, but persistent or worsening symptoms may indicate that the clip has moved from its intended location.
Common warning signs include:
- Severe, unexplained abdominal or pelvic pain
- Heavy bleeding or cramping during menstrual cycles or between periods
- Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Hair loss that seems unrelated to other factors
- Persistent headaches that are new or different
- Pain during sexual intercourse that wasn’t present before the procedure
- Chronic fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest
- Bladder problems, such as pain during urination and frequent infections
- Bowel issues, including changes in bowel movements and rectal discomfort
- Signs of infection, such as fever, unusual discharge, and inflammation
Filshie clip migration can also trigger hormonal imbalances that manifest as hot flashes, mood swings, and memory problems. Many women report psychological effects as well, including anxiety, depression, and in severe cases, symptoms consistent with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Who Qualifies to File a Filshie Clip Lawsuit?
If you have experienced complications following Filshie clip implantation, you may have grounds for legal action. Across the United States, former patients are filing lawsuits against the device’s manufacturers, alleging that they failed to adequately warn patients about the risks of migration and other serious complications.
Generally, women who qualify for a lawsuit are those who have suffered injuries or complications that can be directly linked to the device’s migration. The best way to determine if you have a valid claim is to speak with an attorney currently handling Filshie clip litigation. The attorneys at Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC can evaluate your case and help you understand your legal options.
Trust Our Filshie Clip Attorneys to Fight for Your Rights
Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC is representing clients nationwide in their fight against Filshie clip manufacturers. Our firm is deeply committed to holding negligent manufacturers accountable for the harm they’ve caused, and we have successfully helped thousands of victims seek justice. Our attorneys have the knowledge, resources, and determination necessary to take on large corporations and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
When you choose our firm, you can expect:
- Thorough investigation of your case and medical records
- Access to leading medical experts who understand device complications
- Personalized attention throughout your legal journey
- Aggressive negotiation with manufacturers and insurance companies
- Coordination with other firms and attorneys involved in this litigation
What Compensation Can You Recover in a Filshie Clip Claim?
Compensation in Filshie clip lawsuits is designed to address both the financial and personal losses that you have suffered due to device complications. For example, you can recover compensation for all of your medical expenses related to the migration. This includes the cost of diagnosis, initial treatment, surgical procedures, medications, and any ongoing care that you now require.
You may also be entitled to compensation for lost wages if your complications prevented you from working, as well as diminished earning capacity if your career prospects have been permanently affected. You can also secure compensation for the pain and suffering you endured, acknowledging the physical discomfort, emotional distress, and reduction in quality of life.
Schedule Your Free Legal Consultation with Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC
If you’re suffering from complications related to Filshie clips, don’t wait to seek legal help. Your health and future matter, and you deserve an attorney who will fight tirelessly for your rights.
Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC has spent decades helping victims of defective medical devices, and we will use our experience and resources to build the strongest possible case on your behalf. Contact us at (800) 220-0984 to schedule your free, confidential consultation and take the first step toward getting the justice and compensation you deserve.