New Technique for Removing IVC Filters Shows 100 percent Removal Rate

Complications have been found to arise when both temporary and permanent blood clot filters are left in longer than three to six months. Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are a cage-like device implanted in the largest vein in the body. Its purpose is to catch blood clots before they reach the heart or lungs. But filters have been under scrutiny in the last year for their high rates of failure. Reported complications include the legs of the filter fracturing and traveling through the body, heart and/or lungs. Other complications reported include abdominal pain, tilting of the filter, and the filter ... Read More