Complications of IVC Filters

Inferior vena cava filters, or IVC filters, are generally safe ways to prevent blood clots from entering the lungs. They are inserted through a vein in the leg or neck and placed in a vein known as the vena cava, which returns blood from the body to the heart. Despite being relatively safe, complications still exist. These include operative complications and long-term complications.

Vascular Access

• Complications during insertion include pneumothorax, hemorrhage and vessel injury. Pneumothorax, sometimes known as a collapsed lung, can occur when inserting the IVC filter through the jugular vein. Hemorrhage occurs when blood escapes from the blood vessel and cannot be controlled. Vessel injury occurs when the insertion needle damages the blood vessel used for access.

Filter Insertion

• Complications during the filter placement include misplacement, excessive tilt and vascular damage. Misplacement or excessive tilt can result in ineffectiveness or damage to the vena cava, requiring the filter to be removed. Vascular damage can result in hemorrhage and can be life threatening.

Long-Term Complications

• Long-term complications include filter migration, recurrent pulmonary embolism and caval occlusion. Migration occurs when the filter is not placed properly and fails to attach to the walls of the vena cava. Recurrent pulmonary embolism occurs when the filter is ineffective. Caval occlusion occurs when the filter causes the vena cava to collapse, preventing blood from returning to the heart. This is a life-threatening emergency that causes dangerously high blood pressure.