IVC Filter Placement
An IVC Filter is a specially shaped mesh made of very thin wires. It is placed in the center of the IVC to trap blood clots from going to your heart or lungs. This helps prevent the blood clots from blocking blood vessels in your lungs and causing serious problems.
Procedure
- You will lie on your back.
- You will be attached to a heart monitor and blood pressure cuff.
- A small catheter (tube) will be inserted in your groin.
- You will stay a minimum of one hour post procedure.
Preparation & Considerations
- Please expect a phone call prior to your procedure informing you of specific requirements, obtaining a health history and a list of medications including blood thinners, and answering any questions that you may have.
- Blood work is required prior to most procedures.
- Please ensure that you have not had anything to eat or drink after midnight the night before your procedure.
- Take your normal medications unless otherwise indicated by your physician.
- If you are diabetic, talk to your physician about your insulin dose.
- Shower or bathe the evening before or the morning of the procedure.
- Please leave jewelry and other valuables at home; we are not responsible for items that you bring into the hospital.
- Bring all medications in their labeled containers with you on the day of your procedure.
- Plan on being at the hospital for at least 4 hours.
- Plan on resting for 12 hours post procedure.
- Do not drink alcohol 48 hours before or after your procedure.
- You MUST have a responsible adult to drive you home.
- Do not operate a vehicle, heavy machinery post- procedure for the remainder of that day.
- Do not make any important decisions post-procedure for the remainder of that day.
- As a reminder, children are not allowed into the imaging room and must be supervised by another guardian while your study is being completed.