IV filter placed in vein following auto accident. Now it's too late to remove filter because it's been in too long. What are the consequences and/or side effects to look out for? Can this cause future complications?
2006-08-02 15:14:15 · 1 answers · asked by jannette56 1 in Health ➔ General Health Care ➔ Other - General Health Care
This is what I found by looking online:
Most IVC filters are permanent, but some filters are now available that are "retrievable." Retrievable filters are fitted with some sort of device (that varies from model to model) that allows them to be pulled back into a catheter (technically a "sheath") and removed from the body. In general, filters must have been in the IVC for less than three weeks to attempt retrieval, as filters that have been in place longer will be overgrown by cells from the IVC wall and there is increased risk of IVC injury if the filter is dislodged.
Long-term complications occur in a minority of patients and include recurrent pulmonary embolus, caval occlusion, and filter migration. Overall, the benefits of preventing pulmonary embolism far exceed the risks related to filter placement in properly selected patients.
Hope this helps!
2006-08-02 15:30:38 · answer #1 · answered by rita_alabama 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋