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Essential equipment: Inferior vena caval filters
Purpose
Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are placed to prevent pulmonary embolism. They are most often used when there is a contraindication to anticoagulation. Despite the name, they are occasionally used in the superior vena cava.
Description
IVC filters use a form of wire lattice, often umbrella-shaped, to catch large blood clots, while allowing flow through the inferior vena cava. They are introduced in a constrained state and expand when released (like a self-expanding stent). IVC filters are designed to anchor to the IVC wall using a combination of radial force; most have additional barbs/feet, which pierce the wall. Some designs incorporate secondary struts to help centre the filter within the IVC.
Measurements
Filter
Orientation
This is not a measurement but is vitally important. Remember, this relates to whether the filter is intended to be deployed from above (e.g. jugular vein) or below (e.g. femoral vein).
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