AngioDynamics Faces Lawsuit Over Catheter Failure
A new product liability lawsuit alleges a defective SmartPort catheter fractured inside a patient.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Healthcare
Vicki L. Chiappini has filed a product liability lawsuit against AngioDynamics Inc. and Navilyst Medical Inc. The complaint alleges that a defective SmartPort catheter fractured within the patient, requiring surgical removal of the device.
Why it matters
The plaintiff alleges that the manufacturers were aware of fracture risks associated with the device but continued to sell the product without providing adequate warnings to medical providers or patients.
This case is one of hundreds of active port catheter lawsuits filed nationwide against medical device manufacturers. The complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California remains in the early procedural stages.
The players
Vicki L. Chiappini
She is the plaintiff who filed the product liability complaint in federal court.
AngioDynamics Inc.
This is a medical device manufacturer named as a defendant in the litigation.
Navilyst Medical Inc.
This company is named as a defendant and co-manufacturer of the medical device in question.
The details
The lawsuit claims that improper concentrations and mixing of barium sulfate weakened the polyurethane catheter, leading to the device fracturing while implanted. The plaintiff, a resident of South Carolina, underwent surgery to remove the broken medical component.
Timeline
October 8, 2026: The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California.
Market Landscape
This lawsuit joins a broader wave of litigation against medical device manufacturers involving similar port catheter failures. The case reflects growing industry-wide scrutiny regarding the safety and manufacturing standards of implanted medical devices.
Patients who have had a port catheter implanted may consider consulting their physician if they experience unexplained complications or discomfort. This case underscores the importance of monitoring medical device alerts and tracking potential recall notices for long-term health safety.
The takeaway
Product liability lawsuits serve as a legal mechanism for consumers to address concerns regarding the safety of implanted medical devices. Individuals concerned about their own medical hardware should verify device models with their healthcare providers.
Further reading
Learn more about federal litigation trends by visiting our United States Healthcare section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by AboutLawsuits.
