Even though inferior vena cava filters, also called IVC filters, are placed inside the patient to prevent blood clot events, medical experts are now warning against them because of the risk of IVC thrombosis and other IVC filter side effects.

It is currently estimated IVC thrombosis accounts for between 2.6 percent to 4.0 percent of all deep venous thrombosis cases, but the true statistic remains unknown.

Researchers explain that the “true incidence of IVC thrombosis may be underestimated due to lack of of standardized methods,” and that the severity of the risk is unknown.

This study, found online in JACC: Cardiovascular Interventions, was conducted by Dr. Mohamad Alkhouli and his colleagues at the University of Rochester Medical Center.

Other medical experts have praised the study for gaining the attention of the medical community, but stated that further research was needed to properly evaluate the risks of IVC thrombosis.

Dr. Michael R. Jaff of Massachusetts General Hospital also stated that IVC thrombosis is difficult to diagnose which may be partially to blame for the difficult risk evaluation. The researchers warned that untreated IVC thrombosis can lead to serious cardiac complications.

According to the study results, these compounded IVC filter complications include post thrombotic at 90 percent, disabling venous claudication at 45 percent, pulmonary embolism at 30 percent, and venous ulceration and 15 percent.

These findings are problematic, as many patients at risk for thrombotic events often opt to have an IVC filter implanted.

Overview of IVC Filter Complications

The inferior vena cava is the biggest vein in the body and is primarily responsible for insuring proper circulation throughout the body. When blood clots form in either the legs or pelvis, there is a significant risk of the clot traveling up to the heart or lungs.

To prevent stroke or other thrombotic events, patients can choose to have an IVC filter implanted in their inferior vena cava to stop the blood clot from reaching the heart or lungs.

Patients can either choose temporary or permanent IVC filter models, with the first option being reversible after the blood clot is resolved.

However, the temporary IVC filter models have reportedly caused a number of problems in patients. IVC thrombosis may be another concern in the long list of complications and is associated with temporary IVC filter models.

Treatment for IVC thrombosis can be difficult, and is often different from case to case according to the specific physician.

However the researchers stated that “pharmacomechanical catheter directed thrombectomy” may be essential for managing these IVC filter complications.

Other medical experts state the prevention is vital, especially with how compounding the problems associated with IVC thrombosis are.

Furthermore, physicians should always thoroughly evaluate the risks when deciding whether or not to recommend IVC filter implantation to patients.

Other IVC filter complications patients have to look out for include device migration, filter perforation and filter fracture primarily associated with the temporary models.

Even though these are serious complications, the manufacturing companies allegedly failed to warn the population and medical community against these potential risks and are now facing legal action from many former patients.

Potential claimants should contact a specialized lawyer, to determine if they have an IVC filter lawsuit.