📖 What is an IVC filter?
An inferior vena cava (IVC) filter is a small metal device inserted into the main vein of the abdomen (inferior vena cava) to trap blood clots before they reach the lungs (pulmonary embolism). It is used when anticoagulation is contraindicated or has failed to prevent recurrent PE.
Most modern filters are retrievable — placed temporarily and removed once the risk of PE has passed (typically after 4–12 weeks). Insertion and retrieval are performed under local anaesthesia via the right internal jugular or femoral vein, as a day procedure.
⚡ IVC filter at a glance — At a glance
An inferior vena cava filter catches blood clots travelling from the legs towards the lungs, preventing pulmonary embolism, in patients who cannot take anticoagulants.
| Criterion | Data |
|---|---|
| Indication | Deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism when anticoagulation is contraindicated or has failed |
| Type | Most filters used today are retrievable |
| Follow-up | Planned removal once the risk period has passed |
| Cost | Covered by French national health insurance at Cochin AP-HP — no out-of-pocket fees |
Data validated by the team of Prof. Anthony Dohan, Department of Interventional Radiology, Cochin Hospital AP-HP, Université Paris Cité.
🎯 Indications
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or PE with contraindication to anticoagulation (recent surgery, active bleeding, thrombocytopenia)
- Recurrent PE despite adequate anticoagulation therapy
- High-risk surgical patients with proximal DVT and planned major surgery
- Free-floating iliocaval thrombus with high embolic risk
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✓ Why this page is trustworthy
Written by the Interventional Radiology team at Cochin Hospital AP-HP, Université Paris Cité. Medically reviewed by an interventional radiologist of the department. Last updated: August 2026.