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IVC Filter Overview
An inferior vena cava filter, or IVC filter, is a small device that is implanted in the inferior vena cava to prevent blood clots from traveling to the lungs from other parts of the body. It’s an alternative treatment for patients who need to avoid anticoagulant medications.
The inferior vena cava is a large vein that brings blood from the lower extremities back to the heart. This blood is deoxygenated from having traveled through the torso and lower body, so it is pumped back through the vena cava into the heart’s right ventricle.
In patients who are at risk for blood clots, this vein may allow clots to travel from other parts of the body towards the heart. Blood clots often form in the deep veins in the thigh or lower leg. When this happens, it is called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT is a serious medical condition, and must be treated quickly. Symptoms of DVT may include swelling, pain, leg tenderness, warmth, or skin redness.
When blood is quickly flowing through the body, the risk of developing a clot is low. However, the tiny valves in your veins that keep the blood moving may become weak or damaged. When this happens, blood may pool or flow very slowly from the legs back up to the heart.
This pooling or slow movement may result in clumps of blood vessels sticking together and forming a clot. If this clot is brought from the leg through the vena cava and into the lungs, it may cause a blockage, known as a pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolism is dangerous, and may result in sudden death.
In order to prevent pulmonary embolism in patients who are at risk, an IVC filter may be implanted. The small, wiry device may be implanted during a short surgical procedure. The purpose of the device is to allow blood to flow through it easily, while catching any blood clots and preventing them from reaching the heart or lungs.
The filter is placed by making a small incision in a groin or neck vein. Then, a thin and flexible catheter is inserted into the vein and routed to your inferior vena cava according to the Mayo Clinic. A collapsed filter will be sent through the catheter, where it will expand and attach itself to the walls of your IVC. Some of these devices may be left in place permanently, while others are intended to be temporary.
IVC Filter Side Effects
There are several risks and side effects associated with IVC filters and IVC filter placement surgery. Many of these side effects are associated with the failure to remove temporary IVC filters. Some of the risks associated with failing to remove the filters include:
- Filter migration
- Filter fracture
- Deep vein thrombosis
- IVC thrombosis
- Access site thrombosis
Recalls and Safety Announcements
The FDA has recommended that IVC filters are intended to be a temporary measure for patients at high risk of pulmonary embolism. According to the FDA, these devices are recommended to be removed once the risk of pulmonary embolism subsides, or between 29 and 54 days after the device was implanted.
Lawsuits and Settlements
Victims who have been implanted with IVC filters and have been harmed by these devices may be eligible to hire an attorney and file a class action lawsuit against the manufacturer of their filter. Victims who file lawsuits may be able to pursue compensation for damages including pain and suffering, injuries, loss of income, and more.
