What Are IVC Filters?

Blood clots sometimes develop in the veins of the leg or pelvis, a condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Occasionally, these clots break up and large pieces of the clot can travel to the lungs, causing a potentially-fatal condition known as pulmonary embolism (PE). An IVC filter traps large clot fragments and prevents them from traveling through the vena cava vein to the heart and lungs.

Has Your Doctor Recommended Removal?

If you have a retrievable filter and the risk of blood clot is reduced, you could be a good candidate for IVC Filter removal.

How Are IVC Filters Removed?

Removing IVC filters embedded in the vein takes unique expertise. An interventional radiologist who specializes in vascular disease and management of complex IVC filter cases is well-equipped to handle IVC filter removal. Our specialists perform a minimally-invasive procedure to retrieve IVC filters.


Step 1

X-ray dye (contrast) will be injected around the filter to assure that the area beneath the filter is free of blood clots and that it is safe to proceed with removal.


Step 2


At Precision VIR, Excellent Patient Care Is Our Passion

Our specialists will take the time to answer your questions about IVC Filters.

Schedule an Appointment

Precision VIR provides expert procedures for IVC filter removal. We see more and more patients referred to us from other physicians for treatment of problematic IVC filters.

We use the latest protocols for managing challenging, high-risk cases in patients who otherwise would have no treatment option. IVC filter removal can eliminate the risk of complications associated with long-term IVC implantation.

Please request an appointment to see if you are a good candidate for IVC filter removal.

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Has Your Doctor Recommended an IVC Filter?

If your doctor has recommended an IVC Filter and any of the following apply, you may be a good candidate for IVC Filters.


DVT or PE Persists

You continue to develop Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or Pulmonary Emboli (PE) despite the use of anticoagulants, or anti-clotting drugs


Tried Anti-Clotting Drugs

You have tried to use anti-clotting drugs, but developed significant bleeding complications from them


Other Conditions

You are at risk of a Pulmonary Embolism (PE), but can’t use anti-clotting drugs, due to another condition that puts you at the risk of bleeding


Large Clots

You have large clots in the Inferior Vena Cava or Iliac Veins

Common Questions About IVC Filters

How is DVT diagnosed?

Deep Vein Thrombosis is diagnosed using ultrasound imaging, as well as through a patient’s medical history. Ultrasound imaging uses sound waves to create an image of bloodflow and locate the clot.

Will the Procedure Hurt?

Before the IVC Filter placement, local anesthetic is applied to the area where the catheter will be inserted. Plus, you will be given a sedative to help you relax before the procedure.

What are the success rates of this procedure?

IVC Filter placement is a safe, effective procedure with a very high success rate. In fact, 90% of patients who undergo the procedure report an improvement of their symptoms.

How do I prepare for the procedure?

We will carefully explain instructions on how to prepare for the procedure. We will also provide you with written instructions.

Ready to Schedule an Appointment?

Our Doctors Will Take The Time to Answer All of Your Questions