How Do IVC Filters Work?

IVC filters are modern miracles that can potentially save lives but patients are working with blood clot filter perforation attorneys to file lawsuits over serious injuries.  These tiny creations are inserted and live in the largest vein in the body.  Generally, that are surgically implanted by a vascular surgeon in the vein by the kidneys.  The idea is that once the filter is implanted, they can catch any blood clots or embolisms that break loose from the legs and travel up to the heart and lungs.  These clots can block the main arteries of the heart and to the lungs if not stopped, causing pulmonary embolisms which can be fatal.

So, what do these “filters” look like?  There are a few variations, but they are mostly cone shaped, with a base that has tiny “legs” that stem from it.  These legs look like tiny bits of wire.  The idea is is that the legs and base catch the clot before it can travel further upstream where it can block blood flow.  Eventually they will dissolve while the blood is still flowing around it, allowing proper movement of the blood which is crucial to the body working properly.

One type of IVC is called a Titanium Greenfield.  It is made from titanium alloy and has elastic properties.  It has 6 legs The Greenfield types of filters are common and well-known and have been in existence for some time.  There are other configurations such as one that has the appearance of a net, and one filter that is shaped using loops of the wire.

Patients that need IVC filters are those that have bleeding complications or that cannot handle any type of anticoagulation therapy.  Anticoagulation therapy helps break down any dangerous clots.  These patients will need some type of assistance to prevent artery blockage and are perfect candidates for IVC filters.  Also, if patients have already had clots discovered in the inferior vena cava or iliac veins, they are potential candidates of these types of filters.  There are a select number of vascular surgeons who perform this specific procedure within the inferior vena cava and are qualified to perform replacement IVC surgeries. Most of them can be found on the internet complete with information, reviews, and locations.

IVC filters are inserted in a relatively simple procedure.  After the procedure is completed, the patient is required to rest for 12 to 24 hours, and can usually resume normal activity in a day or two.  This may vary from patient to patient, but most recover quickly and without complications.

Candidates for IVC procedures are people who have had clots identified, are at higher risks for pulmonary embolisms, and have issues with bleeding and anticoagulation treatments.  The IVC can assist these patients with these issues in a safer manner than with drugs alone.

Be aware, some patients have experienced organ damage and even death when their IVC filter broke, and their pieces moved throughout the bloodstream puncturing organs and causing internal bleeding. Sometimes the device as a whole will move from where it was implanted by the doctor creating a potentially life-threatening situation. If you or a family member were injured by an IVC filter, contact one of our IVC filter attorneys today to learn if you are eligible to file an IVC filter lawsuit for compensation.