Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filter Insertion and Removal

An IVC filter is a small piece of metal, made of nitinol or stainless steel, that can be placed into the IVC to prevent blood clots in the legs from traveling to the lungs.

Insertion
Using image guidance, a catheter is inserted through the skin into a blood vessel in the neck or groin and advanced to the IVC in the abdomen. The IVC filter is then placed through the catheter and into the vein where it will attach itself to the walls of the blood vessel.

Removal
To remove an IVC filter, a special catheter is advanced to the site of the filter in the vena cava. A removable IVC filter has a small hook or knob at one end that enables the catheter to take hold of and withdraw it from the body.

Indications:

  • Immobility & thromboembolic risks
  • Disruption in anticoagulation therapies
  • Contraindications to anticoagulation

To schedule a consultation, please contact our Baltimore Center or our Towson Center.