What is an Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filter and How Does it Work?

The inferior vena cava (IVC) is the large vein that carries blood from the lower body back to the heart. An IVC filter is a small, umbrella-shaped device that is implanted in the IVC to prevent potentially fatal blood clots (pulmonary emboli) from traveling from the legs or pelvis to the lungs. Here are the key things to know about IVC filters.

Placement and Structure

Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filter are typically placed percutaneously (through the skin) via the femoral or jugular vein in a minimally invasive procedure performed under imaging guidance such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy. The filter itself is made of nitinol (nickel-titanium) which gives it shape memory and flexibility. It has multiple anchoring legs and a cylindrical main body that catch and trap emboli before they can reach the lungs. Most IVC filters are permanent but some are retrievable for short-term use.

Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filter-https://www.coherentmarketinsi....ghts.com/industry-re