IVC Filter and Stenting

What is the Inferior Vena Cava (IVC)?

The Inferior Vena Cava is the largest vein in the body. It carries blood from the lower half of the body (legs, pelvis, abdomen) back to the heart.

What is an IVC Filter?

An IVC filter is a small, cage-like metal device placed inside the inferior vena cava to trap blood clots and prevent them from traveling to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).

Why is an IVC Filter Used?

  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

  • Pulmonary Embolism (PE)

  • Patients who cannot take blood thinners

  • Recurrent PE despite anticoagulation

  • Trauma or major surgery patients at high clot risk

Types of IVC Filters

  • Permanent filters

  • Retrievable (temporary) filters – preferred nowadays

IVC Filter Placement Procedure

  • Performed by an Interventional Radiologist

  • Access via neck (jugular vein) or groin (femoral vein)

  • Local anesthesia

  • Image guidance (fluoroscopy)

  • Usually completed in 30–45 minutes

Benefits

  • Prevents life-threatening pulmonary embolism

  • Minimally invasive

  • Quick recovery

Possible Complications

  • Filter migration

  • Filter fracture

  • IVC perforation

  • IVC thrombosis
    (Risk is low when done by experienced specialists)

IVC Stenting

What is IVC Stenting?

IVC stenting involves placing a metal mesh tube (stent) inside the inferior vena cava to open narrowed or blocked segments and restore normal blood flow.

Indications for IVC Stenting

  • IVC obstruction or narrowing

  • Chronic DVT with venous outflow obstruction

  • Post-thrombotic syndrome

  • May-Thurner syndrome (extension)

  • Blockage caused by tumors or fibrosis

  • IVC thrombosis (sometimes after filter placement)

Procedure Steps

  1. Venous access (usually groin)

  2. Venography to identify blockage

  3. Balloon angioplasty

  4. Stent deployment

  5. Final imaging to confirm flow

Advantages

  • Restores venous blood flow

  • Reduces leg swelling and pain

  • Improves quality of life

  • Prevents recurrent DVT

Post-Procedure Care

  • Blood thinners (as advised)

  • Compression stockings

  • Follow-up imaging

IVC Filter vs IVC Stenting

Feature IVC Filter IVC Stenting
Purpose Prevent PE Restore blood flow
Used for Clot trapping Vein narrowing/blockage
Duration Temporary or permanent Permanent
Main Benefit PE prevention Symptom relief & flow restoration

Can Both Be Used Together?

Yes ✅
In some patients, IVC filter placement is followed by IVC stenting, especially when:

  • The filter causes narrowing

  • Chronic thrombosis develops

  • Severe venous obstruction exists

Who Performs These Procedures?

  • Consultant Interventional Radiologist

  • Conducted in a Cath Lab / Angio Suite

Recovery

  • Hospital stay: Same day or 1 day

  • Return to routine: 24–48 hours

  • Regular follow-up is essential