What PowerPort Catheters Are
PowerPort is a brand of implantable port -- a small device implanted under the skin, typically in the chest, providing repeated intravenous access without repeated needle sticks. Patients receiving chemotherapy, long-term IV medications, or frequent blood draws commonly have ports implanted. The PowerPort is a specific model made by C.R. Bard designed to withstand high-pressure contrast injections for CT scans.
Lawsuits allege that PowerPort catheters fracture along the catheter tubing, with fragments migrating through the venous system to the heart, pulmonary vessels, or other locations. Fragment migration can cause arrhythmia, perforation, embolism, and may require cardiac catheterization or other invasive procedures for retrieval.
The Power Port Litigation
Mass tort cases are being filed in the District of Arizona, consistent with Bard's other mass tort MDL proceedings. Plaintiffs allege Bard was aware of catheter fracture failure rates from its own post-market surveillance data and clinical reports but failed to reformulate or adequately warn about fracture risk.
The litigation parallels Bard's IVC filter and hernia mesh cases -- similar theories about known failure rates, inadequate warnings, and delayed corrective action. Bard's litigation history in these product categories provides plaintiffs' attorneys with established discovery frameworks and damages templates.
Who Qualifies
Patients who had a Bard PowerPort implanted and experienced: catheter fracture confirmed by imaging; symptoms of fragment migration (chest pain, arrhythmia, difficulty breathing); or required surgical or interventional procedures to retrieve catheter fragments -- may have claims. Medical records identifying the specific PowerPort model and documenting any fracture or migration events are essential. Related: Bard Hernia Mesh Lawsuit.
Status 2026
PowerPort litigation is in its early consolidation phase. No MDL has been formally established as of 2026. Individual cases continue to be filed. Consult a mass tort attorney specializing in medical device claims.
How to Get Legal Help
If you believe you qualify based on the eligibility criteria described above, the next step is a free consultation with an experienced attorney. Most plaintiff-side attorneys handling these cases work on contingency -- meaning you pay nothing unless your case results in a recovery. Bring any relevant documentation including receipts, correspondence, or evidence of the harm you experienced.
To stay current on case developments, claim deadlines, and settlement news, bookmark this page and subscribe to LawsuitWatch alerts. Coverage is updated as new court filings, settlement announcements, and eligibility changes are made public.
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Power Port Lawsuit: Bard PowerPort Catheter Fracture Claims: Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about this case and your legal options.
What is a Bard PowerPort?
An implantable venous access port placed under the skin for repeated IV access, commonly used for chemotherapy patients.
What injuries do PowerPort catheters cause?
Alleged injuries include catheter fracture, fragment migration to the heart or vessels, arrhythmia, perforation, and the need for retrieval procedures.
Is there a PowerPort MDL?
Formal MDL consolidation was in process as of 2026. Individual cases are being filed in the District of Arizona.
How do I know if my port fractured?
Symptoms include chest pain, arrhythmia, or difficulty breathing. Fractures are confirmed by chest X-ray or CT scan. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience these symptoms.
What should I do if I have a Bard PowerPort?
If you are experiencing symptoms, contact your oncologist or interventional radiologist. If you've had a documented fracture, consult a mass tort attorney.