Are You At Risk of Blood Clots? Consider IVC Filter Placement

A blood clot is a mass of blood that has changed from a liquid to a gel-like or solid state. Blood clots are a serious health concern because they can block blood flow and lead to life-threatening complications like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE).

DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in your veins, particularly in your legs. A PE happens when it travels to your lungs or heart. Up to 100,000 people die from blood clots each year — and for those at high risk of developing them, an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter might be a valuable preventive measure.

At Vascular & Interventional Specialists, we offer IVC filter placement at our office in Miami, Florida. Let’s explore the risk factors for blood clots, what an IVC filter is, and how this device could help protect you from dangerous clots.

Understanding your risk for blood clots

Anyone can get a blood clot. However, certain factors may make it more likely. The first step to protecting yourself from blood clot complications is understanding your unique risk factors, and here are few of the most common:

Prolonged immobility

Regular activity promotes healthy blood flow and lowers the risk of blood clots. However, if you’re on extended bed rest, recovering from surgery, or have a sedentary lifestyle, lack of movement can increase your risk of clot formation.

Surgery or trauma

Surgical procedures, especially orthopedic surgeries, can increase your risk of blood clots because they often require a period of immobility during recovery. Trauma from accidents or injuries can also increase your risk because damaged blood vessels trigger your body’s natural clotting response.

Medical conditions

Certain health conditions like cancer, heart disease, or clotting disorders can increase your likelihood of developing blood clots. Women who are pregnant or using hormone therapy, including birth control pills, may also be at increased risk.

Family history and age

If blood clots run in your family or if you're over the age of 60, your risk of developing clots is higher.

Lifestyle factors

Along with leading a sedentary lifestyle, other lifestyle factors can increase your risk of blood clots. Both obesity and smoking are major risk factors for blood clots because they can limit blood flow throughout your body and increase the likelihood of clotting.

If you're at increased risk for blood clots, consider talking to our team about preventive measures. Staying active, wearing compression stockings, and taking anticoagulant medications as prescribed can all be good options. Sometimes, we recommend medical devices like IVC filters to catch clots before they reach your lungs or heart.

How IVC filters work

An IVC filter is a small, cone-shaped device inserted into your inferior vena cava — the large vein that carries blood from your lower body to your heart. The filter works by trapping large blood clots that form in your legs or pelvis before they can travel to your lungs, where they could cause a pulmonary embolism.

The procedure to place an IVC filter is minimally invasive and usually performed under local anesthesia. We insert a catheter through a vein in your neck or groin and guide the filter into your inferior vena cava. Once positioned, the filter can catch clots while still allowing blood to flow freely.

The primary function of an IVC filter is to prevent life-threatening clots from reaching vital organs, including your lungs and heart. It can be a good option for people who are at risk of blood clots, unable to take blood-thinning medications or have a history of recurrent blood clots despite medication.

Is IVC filter placement right for you?

Blood thinners are a standard treatment for preventing clots. However, not everyone is a good candidate for these medications. If you have a high risk of blood clots or can’t take blood thinners, an IVC filter could provide additional protection by physically stopping the clot before it can cause harm.

Our team offers consultations to help you learn about your options. During your appointment, we assess your specific risk factors, medical history, and current condition to determine whether the procedure is suitable for you.

If you’re at risk of blood clots, an IVC filter could be a life-saving measure. Learn more about the benefits and potential risks with a conversation at Vascular & Interventional Specialists. Call us at 305-230-4664 or request an appointment online now.