Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filter Placement

IVC filter placement is a procedure to place a filter into your inferior vena cava (IVC). The IVC is a large blood vessel that brings blood from your lower body back to your heart. The filter is a small mesh strainer made of thin wires. It is placed in the center of the IVC to trap blood clots going to your hear or lungs.

You may need an IVC filter if the doctor determines that you have a clot in your lower extremities. You may also need one if your risk of blood clots has increased such as after surgery or during pregnancy. Some situations may require temporary filter.