Pulmonary Embolism Prevention: How Long Will I Have My IVC Filter?

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs and cuts off blood flow. Those at an increased risk for blood clots benefit from an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter, which prevents blood clots from reaching the lungs. 

But how long does it stay there once you have an IVC filter?

Drs. John Yoo and Benjamin Wilson, at Vascular & Interventional Specialists in Fort Worth, Texas, answer this and more in our latest blog post. 

How an IVC filter works

IVC filters are small, cage-like devices placed in the inferior vena cava, the large vein that carries blood from the lower body to the heart. They catch blood clots before they can travel to the lungs, reducing the risk of PE. 

We recommend IVC filters for patients who carry risk factors for blood clots, including having a history of multiple pulmonary embolisms and other clotting factors, including surgery, trauma, and immobility. 

If you have deep vein thrombosis but can’t take blood thinners, you’re also a candidate for IVC filters. 

How long will I have my IVC filter?

The length of time you have your IVC filter depends on your condition and risk factors. There are two main types of IVC filters: retrievable filters and permanent filters. 

Retrievable filters are for temporary use, and you should remove them when the risk of blood clots has decreased (usually within a few weeks or months). 

As the name suggests, permanent filters typically stay in place indefinitely. They’re most beneficial for patients at a high long-term risk of blood clots who cannot safely take blood thinners. 

However, studies show that many retrievable filters are left in place longer than necessary, which can lead to complications such as:

• Filter migration
• Vein blockage
• Filter fracture

Sometimes, the filter itself can contribute to clot formation. 

For these reasons, the FDA has recommended considering IVC filter removal once it’s no longer needed. That’s why it’s important to follow up with us about removal as soon as it is safe.

What to expect from filter removal

At Vascular & Interventional Specialists, IVC filter removal is quick and minimally invasive. 

We begin by administering a local anesthetic with moderate sedation. Then, we create a small incision in your neck or groin. We guide a long, thin tube (a catheter) to the IVC filter with the help of X-ray guidance. 

We feed a small snare through the catheter to engage a small hook on the filter, which collapses it and allows us to remove it. 

Most patients go home on the same day without a stitch. 

What if you can not remove my filter?

If your IVC filter has migrated or scar tissue and/or blood clots have formed around it, we discuss your other options, including monitoring your filter and using blood thinners to manage blood clots. 

IVC filters are life-saving devices but don’t last forever. If you’re unsure of your filter’s status, don’t wait. Call our friendly staff at 817-321-0951 or use our online booking tool to schedule an appointment today.