First Bard PowerPort Infection Trial Opens in Arizona MDL
The first bellwether trial over Bard PowerPort catheter infections began April 21, 2026, in Arizona.
Why it matters: Bellwether outcomes will likely shape litigation strategy and potential settlements across more than 3,200 consolidated lawsuits. The case highlights medical device safety risks, with broad implications for healthcare providers, insurers, and legal practitioners in product liability.
- The opening trial (Cook v. Becton Dickinson) centers on claims the PowerPort caused a severe infection.
- Over 3,200 lawsuits have been consolidated in MDL No. 3081 in Arizona as of April 2026.
- Plaintiffs allege the device's ChronoFlex material degrades, risking fractures and infection.
- Six bellwether trials, covering infections and other complications, are scheduled from April 2026 to February 2027.
The first bellwether trial addressing infection claims tied to Bard PowerPort catheter devices began on April 21, 2026, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona, marking a pivotal test case for an MDL encompassing over 3,200 lawsuits consolidated last year.
- The plaintiff, Robert Cook, alleges that a Bard PowerPort implanted for medication delivery became infected shortly after the procedure, requiring revision surgery. Cook claims, “The Defendants concealed—and continue to conceal—their knowledge of the PowerPort’s unreasonably dangerous risks from Plaintiff and his physicians.” More here.
- Plaintiffs broadly contend that PowerPort's ChronoFlex tubing degrades over time, making the device susceptible to cracking and infection. The catheters are commonly used for direct bloodstream medication, such as chemotherapy.
- Becton Dickinson and C.R. Bard, the defendants, have denied all allegations, maintaining that the devices are safe and that risk disclosures are adequate for healthcare professionals.
- Between December 2025 and February 2026, the FDA's MAUDE database logged 438 reports of PowerPort complications, raising regulatory and industry concerns about the device’s performance.
- The first six bellwether trials will run from April 2026 through February 2027, covering not just infection claims but also issues like thrombosis and catheter fractures. The outcomes are expected to shape future litigation—and possible settlements. Read analysis.
Plaintiff attorney Brendan Smith said, “Bard PowerPort injuries result in numerous damages to potential victims, including sustaining medical bills, future medical expenses, lost wages or lost earning capacity, permanent disability, pain and suffering, emotional damages, and other compensatory damages.”
By the numbers:
- 3,200+ — Bard PowerPort lawsuits consolidated in MDL No. 3081 as of April 2026
- 438 — PowerPort complications reported to FDA MAUDE database, Dec 2025-Feb 2026
- 6 — Number of bellwether trials scheduled between April 2026 and February 2027
Yes, but: Specific details of the defense's evidence and any regulatory response from FDA remain unclear.
What's next: The next five bellwether trials in the Bard PowerPort MDL are set to proceed through February 2027.