Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filter Placement/Removal

Overview

The Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filter is a small metal device placed inside the vena cava which is a large vein that carries blood from the lower body to the heart. It is designed to catch blood clots before they reach the lungs preventing pulmonary embolism (PE).

1. The IVC filter placement procedure involves inserting the filter into the vein.

2. The IVC filter removal procedure is done when the filter is no longer needed.

This treatment is commonly used for patients who cannot take blood thinners or have a high risk of developing blood clots.

Why Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filter Placement/Removal Required?

An IVC filter is recommended for patients with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or a high risk of pulmonary embolism especially when:

• Blood thinners are not safe: Some patients cannot take anticoagulants due to bleeding risks.
• Recurrent blood clots: Even with medication clots may keep forming.
• High risk conditions: After surgery trauma or in cancer patients blood clot risks are higher.
• Prevention in immobile patients: Those who cannot move for long periods may need an IVC filter.

IVC filter removal is required when:

The risk of blood clots has reduced.

The filter has been in place for too long and needs removal to prevent complications.

A retrievable filter is no longer necessary.

Key Advantages of Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filter Placement/Removal

• Prevents life threatening blood clots: The vena cava filter catches clots before they reach the lungs.
• Alternative to blood thinners: Safe for people who cannot take anticoagulants.
• Minimally invasive: The IVC filtration process is quick and done with a catheter.
• Easily removable: If no longer needed IVC filter removal is a simple procedure.
• Immediate protection: Works faster than medications in stopping clots from traveling.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Taking Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filter Placement/Removal Treatment?

Inform your doctor about any allergies or medications you are taking.

You may need to stop certain blood thinners before the procedure.

Avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the IVC filter placement surgery in India.

Wear loose comfortable clothing on the day of the procedure.

Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.

How Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filter Placement/Removal is Performed?

1. IVC Filter Placement Procedure

A catheter is inserted into a vein in the groin or neck.

The IVC filter is guided into the correct position inside the inferior vena cava.

Once placed correctly the greenfield filter placement is expanded and locked in place.

The catheter is removed and the procedure is complete.

2. IVC Filter Removal Procedure

A small catheter is inserted into the vein.

A special tool is used to grab and collapse the IVC filter.

The IVC filter is carefully pulled out.

The vena cava filter removal procedure is quick usually taking 30 minutes.

What You Can Expect?

1. Before the Procedure

The doctor will explain the process and check your medical history.

You will be given mild sedation to keep you comfortable.

2. During the Procedure

A small incision is made to insert the IVC catheter.

The placement of the IVC filter or removal is done using imaging guidance.

The whole process takes around 30 to 60 minutes.

3. After the Procedure

You will be monitored for a short period before being discharged.

Some mild bruising or soreness may occur at the insertion site.

Normal activities can usually be resumed within 24 hours.

Risks and Potential Complications

While the procedure is safe, there are some risks such as:

Bleeding or infection at the catheter site.

Migration of the IVC filter to another part of the vein.

Breakage or damage of the IVC filter, leading to complications.

Difficulty in removing the filter if it has been in place for too long.

Rare cases of vein blockage due to clot formation around the filter.

Results/Outcomes

The IVC filter effectively prevents blood clots from reaching the lungs.

Patients who receive timely IVC filter placement reduce the risk of pulmonary embolism significantly.

IVC filter removal is successful in most cases with minimal complications.

The procedure has a high success rate and improves patient safety.