IVC Filter Placement

What is the purpose of the IVC filter?

The inferior vena cava is a large vein in your abdomen that transports blood back to your heart from the lower extremities. IVC filters are small umbrella-shaped wire devices placed in the inferior vena cava. The filters are designed to trap blood clots from travelling from your legs to the lungs.

The IVC filter is placed through a small incision in a vein in your groin or neck. A thin, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted into this vein. The catheter is then gently moved into your IVC. A collapsed IVC filter is sent with the catheter.