A Proposed Improved Inferior Vena Cava Filter Retrieval Mechanism Design

Retrievable IVC filters provide an alternative method to prevent blood clots from reaching the heart or lungs for patients who cannot use anticoagulants. Despite the filter’s success in preventing pulmonary embolism, the use of IVC filters comes with some problems. These problems occur mainly during the retrieval process and include the fracture of the filter legs and vascular perforation. Current retrieval procedures use a guidance sheath to force the filter to fully collapse causing these complications to arise. There is a need for a retrieval mechanism for an IVC filter for patients who are unable to take anticoagulants, that can be easily used by doctors, while keeping the vasculature walls unharmed and reducing filter fracture, which will increase the patient’s safety.