For people prone to developing blood clots in the leg or pelvis, a condition called deep vein thrombosis, there can be concern that a clot could break into pieces small enough to migrate into the heart and lungs, which can cause serious health complications and sometimes death. Using image guidance, an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter can be placed in the large abdominal vein that returns blood from the lower body back to the heart, and trap clot fragments, preventing them from traveling into vital organs. Traditionally IVC filters were surgically implanted and permanent, but thanks to modern technology and advanced interventional procedures, your MIT radiologist can place a temporary IVC filter and remove it if it is determined by your doctor that the risk of blood clot transfer has passed. If removal is recommended, your MIT radiologist can safely remove the filter, thereby eliminating any long-term complications. If the filter is required to remain installed for long periods or even permanently, however, MIT’s IVC filters can remain intact indefinitely.
