Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filter implantation
Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filter implantation is a is a procedure to place a device in the inferior vena cava to prevent a life-threatening pulmonary embolism (PE) or venous thromboembolism (VTE).
Some facts about Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filter implantation:
- Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filter implantation is performed by vascular surgeons or interventional radiologists.
- The inferior vena cava is the large vein through which blood returns from the lower body to the heart.
- The clots are prevented from traveling to the lungs as blood clots in the lower body is trapped by this device.
- Implantation of vena cava filter is required if you are at risk for a pulmonary embolism (PE) and anticoagulation medicine has either failed or can't be used because of medical reasons.
- A thin tube called a catheter is used to implant a filter in the inferior vena cava (IVC) during the procedure.
- Some vena cava filters are permanent, while others are temporary which can be removed when no longer needed.
Preparation for Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filter implantation:
- Inform your health care provider if you have allergies or if you have ever had a problem with sedation.
- Other health problems, like diabetes or kidney problems should also be informed to your health care provider.
- Inform your provider if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
- Eating or drinking anything after midnight the night before your surgery should be avoided.
Procedure for Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filter implantation:
- The procedure will take about one to two hours and you may need to stay or be admitted into the hospital for one or more days afterward.
- An intravenous (IV) line is put into a vein in your arm or hand before the procedure begins which will be used to supply fluids and medicines.
- Anesthesia will be given to keep you free of pain during the procedure.
- Local anesthesia will be injected into the area where the catheter will be placed.
- The catheter will be inserted through the puncture and into a vein that leads to the inferior vena cava.
- Ultrasound or X-ray are used during the procedure.
- The pictures produced by these help the healthcare provider correctly place the vena cava filter.
- Dye or contrast fluid is first injected through the catheter if X-rays are used as the contrast fluid helps make the vein more visible on the X-rays.
- Gel is first applied to the skin if ultrasound is used and a device called a transducer is moved over the skin which sends pictures of the blood vessels to a video screen.
- The filter is then passed through the catheter and placed once the catheter is positioned.
- The catheter is removed after the filter is securely attached.
- Pressure will be applied to the insertion site to stop any bleeding and a bandage is then placed over the site.
- You will be given medicines to manage pain and prevent infection after the procedure.
- Make sure to keep the area clean and dry where the catheter was inserted and follow all instructions about taking care of the area.
