Vena Caval Filter
A DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) is often treated medically, but there are minimally invasive procedures available to treat more severe DVT’s. In patients who cannot receive medical treatment of their DVT due to other medical issues, a device known as a filter may be placed in the inferior vena cava, the large vein that drains the lower body. This filter allows normal blood to flow through the vein but is very effective in capturing any blood clots that have broken off and are traveling to the lungs. Vena caval filters may be either retrievable or permanent.
