Bard PowerPort Lawsuit 2026: Potential $10K–$1M+ Compensation for Catheter Fracture, Migration, Blood Clots, Infections & Other Injuries
As of January 2026, the Bard PowerPort multidistrict litigation (MDL 3081) remains active, with approximately 2,463 lawsuits pending in the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona (overseen by Judge David G. Campbell). The case count has been stable since late December 2025, with no significant additions reported in early January. No global settlement has been announced.
Current Status of the Bard PowerPort Litigation
- Total Pending Lawsuits: Approximately 2,463 (as of December 2025; no major changes reported in January 2026)
- Recent Growth: The MDL grew substantially in late 2025, with hundreds of new cases added in October and November.
- Bellwether Trials: Six bellwether (test) trials are scheduled throughout 2026, starting with the first on March 2, 2026 (Robert Cook case). Additional trials are set for April, July, August, October, and December 2026. These trials will help gauge jury reactions and may drive settlement talks.
- No Recall or Settlement: Bard (part of Becton Dickinson) has not issued a full recall, despite FDA Class I classifications for certain fracture issues. No global settlement has been reached, with major resolutions potentially in late 2026 or 2027 after bellwether outcomes.
Common Injuries in Bard PowerPort Lawsuits
The device’s polyurethane-barium sulfate catheter tubing is alleged to degrade, leading to:
- Catheter fracture and migration (fragments traveling to heart/lungs)
- Blood clots (DVT, pulmonary embolism)
- Severe infections/sepsis
- Cardiac tamponade/pericardial effusion
- Organ perforation
- Necrosis or thrombosis at implant site
- Wrongful death
All models are included (e.g., PowerPort ClearVUE, isp, Slim, Duo, MRI versions).
Estimated Compensation Amounts
No settlements have been paid yet, so these are projections based on similar medical device litigations and injury severity:
- Minor infections or complications: $10,000 – $75,000
- Fracture requiring surgery or moderate issues (e.g., thrombosis): $100,000 – $500,000
- Severe/life-threatening injuries (e.g., embolism, tamponade): $500,000 – $1,000,000+
- Wrongful death: $1,000,000 – $2,000,000+
Average settlements may range from $150,000–$300,000, with higher amounts for well-documented fractures. Bellwether trial results in 2026 will help refine these estimates.
Eligibility to File a Claim
You may qualify if:
- You had a Bard PowerPort implanted (any model, post-2004)
- You experienced fracture, migration, clots, infection, or related complications
- Your claim is within your state’s statute of limitations (varies; act quickly)
Important Notes
- This is for informational purposes only and not legal advice.
- Last major updates: December 2025/January 2026 (case count stable at ~2,463; bellwether schedule confirmed starting March 2, 2026).
- Free case reviews are available on contingency (no fees unless you win).
If you’ve been affected, consult an attorney specializing in Bard PowerPort claims for a personalized evaluation. The litigation is ongoing, and new filings are still being accepted into the MDL.

