IVC Filter Placement and Removal Procedure

IVC stands for inferior vena cava, an essential blood vessel in the body. The IVC takes back blood having low oxygen saturation from low body parts to your heart.

Some people have conditions where blood on their legs clots (deep vein thrombosis). The primary treatment for such cases is blood thinners, otherwise known as anticoagulants. But not all patients can take blood thinners, whether temporary or permanent. Therefore, the suitable approach is an inferior vena cava filter.

The Inferior Vena Cava Filters

This device is a small, cone-shaped metal device implanted in the IVC. It is placed beneath the kidneys to stop blood clots getting into the patient’s heart and or lungs.

Inserting this filter is a less invasive procedure. A physician can perform the process on an outpatient basis. Before settling on a filter, factors to consider may include the time the risk of blood clots is present.

Types of Inferior Vena Cava Filters

There are two types of IVC filters. At MG Heal, our doctors can take you through the process and help you choose the best.

·      Permanent IVC Filters

To administer the Permanent IVC Filters, a doctor places the permanent filter in patients who cannot take blood thinners. The older people are the most affected here. As the name suggest, these IVC filters remain for good in the body.

·      Retrievable IVC Filters

For a retrievable IVC filter, the doctor implants a retrievable filter on you and later removes it when clotting reduces—patients at temporary risk of getting Pulmonary Embolism (PE) get the retrievable filter.

  • Patients who need to pause taking anticoagulation drugs while awaiting surgery need it.
  • Patients with momentary bleeding problems also get retrievable filter implants.

Your doctor may decide to leave a retrievable IVC filter in a patient forever. Alternatively, the doctor may determine that it is in your best interest to remove it later.

Who Is A Candidate for An IVC Filter?

Anyone with PE or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a candidate. If you are unable to take anticoagulants, you may qualify for the IVC filter. So, ensure that you give a complete and accurate medical history.

An IVC filter confines blood clots from your lower body, keeping them from moving to your heart and lungs. A condition that slows blood movement through the veins keeps you at risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Such circumstances include;

  • Surgeries that reduce how mobile you can get and increase inflammation
  • Long traveling periods, injuries, stroke, which limit mobility
  • Blood disorders which increased blood clotting
  • Smoking, obesity, old age
  • Cancer treatment
  • Pregnancy

Placing the IVC Filter

  • When placing the IVC filter, a patient must first lie down on their back.
  • The physician then scrubs your legs and neck with antiseptic soap and covers you with a sterile drape to keep you safe from infections.
  • You’ll get injected with a local anesthetic with just a sting, with minor pain. The relaxer helps you remain comfortable as the doctor places the catheter.
  • The doctor then inserts the tube into your neck or legs and moves it into the IVC of your abdomen. This process requires a fluoroscopy, which helps guide the catheter into your IVC.
  • Afterward, the doctor threads the filter through the tube and puts it in your IVC. It straps itself to the wall and remains intact to filter blood and trap any blood clot flowing from your legs.
  • Once the filter is in place, the doctor ejects the catheter and applies pressure over the area for a few minutes. When the bleeding ceases, the doctor will wrap a bandage over the procedure area.

Removing the IVC Filter

Say you have a temporary IVC filter; your doctor may examine you and see no need for you to keep having it. So, you’ll have to undergo the IVC removal procedure, similar to the placement process.

The step-by-step process is;

  • The doctor injects you with an x-ray dye around the IVC filter.
  • The contrast helps the doctor verify that the area beneath the filter has no blood clots and it’s safe to remove.
  • The doctor then uses a catheter-based snare to capture the hook at the end of the filter.
  • Finally, a removal sheath will cover the filter and remove it from your body.

Are There Any Risks Involved with IVC Filters?

IVC filters can trigger bleeding and infection. The risk is that, blood clots trapped in the IVC filter can form a massive clot down your IVC. As a result, your legs may swell or redden, needing immediate medical attention.  Other risks include tilting, fracture, and vein perforation.

Do You in Need of Help with IVC Filter Placement and Removal?

Are you need the IVC filter or removal? Contact MG Heal Clinic for the best medical care.

At MG Heal Clinic, we have the best specialists in the vascular care field who deliver excellent service to each patient. Our medics combine minimally invasive procedures with care and compassion for all patients. Choose us today to walk with you through your treatment journey.