Inferior vena cava filters were seen as a huge advancement to treat patients who could not tolerate oral blood thinners for their condition.

However, these same devices also carry a risk of complications and may cause bigger problems than what they are designed to treat.

What is an Inferior Vena Cava Filter?

An inferior vena cava filter, also known as an IVC filter, is a small cage -like device that is placed within the inferior vena cava, the body’s largest vein that is responsible for carrying blood from the lower extremities back to the heart.

These devices are used to prevent blood clots from traveling from the lower body back to the heart and lungs, where they can cause serious damage. Blood clots that travel to the lungs and heart can cause a pulmonary embolism, heart attack or stroke, all which are potentially fatal.

The devices act as a trap for blood clots as they attempt to travel from the lower body back to the heart and lungs. The blood is allowed to flow freely past the inferior vena cava filter, while the spider -like projections of the device assist in trapping the blood clots.

Eventually, in most cases, the body dissolves the blood clot on its own and it is reabsorbed back into the blood.

Many of the current vena cava filters are temporary and retrievable and are removed from the patient shortly after the threat of a blood clot has passed. Initially, IVC filters were designed to be permanent, but the retrievable filters are now more typically used.

Vena cava filter devices are commonly surgically placed in patients who have recently undergone major surgeries such as hip replacement surgery or knee replacement surgery.

This is done as a precautionary measure, and typically the filter is removed once the danger of a blood clot is passed. Patients who cannot tolerate oral blood thinner medications are also candidates for vena cava filter placement.

Inferior Vena Cava Filter Complications

A number of complications can arise from the placement of an inferior vena cava filter. These include filter fracture (which can allow blood clots to pass through), migration of the device to other parts of the body, puncture of the inferior vena cava by the filter and device embolization, where part of filter becomes detached.

These complications can lead to severe injuries and even death. It has been noted that many injuries could be avoided if the vena cava filter is retrieved from the body as soon as possible after the threat of blood clots have passed.

The longer a temporary, retrievable device is left in place, the more likely it is to do damage and cause complications.

Filing a Lawsuit over Vena Cava Filter Complications

If you or a loved one has suffered from inferior vena cava filter side effects, you may be eligible to secure compensation as a result of your pain and suffering. An experienced IVC filter lawyer can review your case at no charge and can discuss the legal options that are available to you.