Inferior Vena Cava Filter Placement

The procedure involves the placement of a metal filter in the inferior vena cava, a large vein draining both legs and the pelvis. The filter has an appearance similar to the metal skeleton of an umbrella. It is placed in patients who have blood clots in the veins of the legs or pelvis to prevent these clots from entering the arteries that supply the lungs, which could lead to severe shortness of breath and/or death. The filter is placed through a thin catheter placed into a vein in the neck or groin area. After placement of the filter, the patients cannot feel the device and it remains with them for the remainder of their life. The examination is performed using Ultrasound, X-Rays and x-ray dye (contrast). The procedure takes approximately 45 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia.

Preparation:

1. Do not eat or drink 4 hours prior to the procedure.
2. Arrange for a family member or a friend to drive you home.
3. Inform your doctor of any allergies you may have especially to x-ray contrast.
4. You may take your medicines with small sips of water. Please consult with your doctor about whether or not to take certain medications such as blood thinners like Coumadin or Insulin.
5. Bring all of your medications with you.

After Discharge:

1. Limit activity for at least 24 hours after the examination.
2. Do not shower or bathe until the following morning.
3. Drink extra fluids.
4. You will be given care instructions upon discharge from the hospital.

Notify Your Doctor If:

1. You notice bleeding or enlarging lump at the site where the catheter was inserted.
2. Increasing pain at the catheter insertion site.
3. Leg pain or numbness.
4. Dizziness or light-headed feeling.