For removal, another special catheter is inserted in a similar way to the initial procedure and advanced to the filter site. A removable IVC filter bearing a small hook or knob enables the catheter to locate and capture the filter, close it off, pull it to the catheter and remove it from the body.

During the procedure, a catheter, X-ray or ultrasound device and an inferior vena cava filter will be used. The catheter, once inserted into the skin via a large vein in the neck or groin, will be advanced to the inferior vena cava (IVC) in the abdomen. The IVC filter is placed through the catheter and into the vein, where the interventional radiologist will release the filter to expand and attach itself to the walls of the blood vessel.

Devices to monitor your heart rate and blood pressure will be attached to your body. You will feel a slight pin prick when the needle is inserted into your vein for the IV and when the local anesthetic is injected. The arteries have no sensation. Most of the sensation is at the skin incision site, which is numbed using local anesthetic. If sedation is used, you will remain awake but the intravenous (IV) sedative will make you feel relaxed and sleepy so as to reduce anxiety during the procedure. You may feel slight pressure when the catheter is inserted, but no serious discomfort. As the contrast material passes through your body, you may get a warm feeling. You will remain in the recovery room until you are completely awake and ready to return home. If your IVC filter was inserted through a vein in your neck, you should be able to resume your normal activities within 24 hours. If your filter was inserted through a vein in your groin, you should avoid driving for 24 hours and lifting heavy objects and climbing stairs for 48 hours. The SDMI nurse will provide additional post-procedure instructions before you leave.

Patients will be asked to wear a dressing gown and remove all jewelry, watches, eyeglasses and personal items, as such metallic objects may interfere with the clarity of the X-ray imaging. The patient will then be positioned on their back and connected to monitors that track blood pressure, heart rate and pulse. A technologist will insert an IV to administer sedative medication or a general anesthesia. The catheter insertion point will be sterilized and numbed with a local anesthetic to allow for a small incision to be made in the skin.

Preparation is dependent on a few things, such as blood tests, to see if the kidneys are functioning properly or if the blood is clotting normally. Your doctor may advise that you discontinue the usage of aspirin, nonsteroidial anti-inflammitory drugs (NSAIDs) or blood thinners. Insulin users may have to adjust their dosages before the procedure. A light meal is recommended the night before the patient’s procedure, as food and drink will need to be abstained from after midnight of the day before your procedure.