AngioDynamics Port Catheter Lawsuit
Overview of the AngioDynamics Port Catheter Litigation
Lawsuits filed nationwide allege that certain AngioDynamics port catheters—including the SmartPort, Vortex, and Xcela models—contain a dangerous design defect that causes the devices to fail after implantation. These ports are intended to provide long-term intravenous access for chemotherapy, fluids, and medications, but patients report that the catheter material can degrade, fracture, or migrate through the body.
The “Barium Sulfate” Defect
The core of the litigation involves the use of barium sulfate in the manufacturing process. This compound is added to the catheter’s plastic tubing to make it visible on X-rays and CT scans, allowing doctors to check its placement.
However, Plaintiffs allege that excessive concentrations of barium sulfate weaken the structural integrity of the polyurethane catheter.
- The Problem: When too much barium sulfate is mixed into the plastic, it allegedly creates air pockets and structural flaws.
- The Result: These flaws lead to microfractures and pitting on the catheter’s surface. These rough spots allow bacteria to hide and colonize (leading to infection) or cause the device to become brittle and break apart entirely.
Serious Injuries Linked to Defective Port Catheters
The failure of an AngioDynamics port can lead to life-threatening complications that often require emergency surgical intervention. Reported injuries include:
- Sepsis and Severe Infections: Bacteria entering the bloodstream through microfractures in the degraded material.
- Blood Clots (Thrombosis): Rough surfaces on the degraded catheter promoting clot formation, which can lead to a pulmonary embolism or stroke.
- Catheter Fracture and Migration: Pieces of the device breaking off and traveling to the heart, lungs, or other vital organs.
- Organ and Vessel Perforation: Migrating fragments piercing internal tissues or vascular walls.
- Wrongful Death: Fatal outcomes resulting from septic shock or systemic organ failure.
Current Status of the AngioDynamics MDL
To streamline the legal process, federal lawsuits against AngioDynamics and its subsidiary, Navilyst Medical, have been consolidated into Multidistrict Litigation (MDL No. 3125) in the Southern District of California.
- Presiding Judge: The Honorable Jinsook Ohta.
- Case Volume: As of late 2025, there are more than 250 active lawsuits pending in the MDL, with hundreds of failures reported to the FDA since 2020.
- Discovery Progress: The Court has established formal protocols for Plaintiff Profile Forms (PPF) to identify case-specific injuries and device details early in the litigation.
Do You Qualify for a Lawsuit?
If you or a loved one had an AngioDynamics port catheter implanted and suffered from sepsis, blood clots, or device failure requiring surgery, you may be eligible for compensation. Potential damages may cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Contact Us
Nigh Goldenberg Raso & Vaughn at intake@nighgoldenberg.com or call 202-792-7927 for a free, confidential consultation.
