The medical world is always abuzz with the latest devices and its applications. One of the famous names making rounds are the IVC filters. Though this is an advanced device, it also brings with it specific complications that you need to be aware.
What are IVC Filters?
Simply put, IVC Filters (Inferior Vena Cava) is a minute device, in the shape of a cage implanted on the IVC vein of the patient’s who face severe blood clots. It is for patients’ who are unable to use anticoagulants. The function of this device is to halt the increasing blood clot so that it does not reach to the lung or heart.
Today, incidents related to IVC complications have increased. Some of the difficulties are:
- IVC perforation
- Heart blockage
- Filter fracture
- Any damage to the primary organs
- Death
The probable symptoms of IVC malfunctioning
If you are using an IVC filter, it is essential to learn about the malfunctioning symptoms. You can also browse the internet searching for “IVC Filter Complications and Symptoms · A MedTruth Guide” and other resources to stay updated. Here are a few common symptoms that you shouldn’t avoid.
- A back or abdominal pain
One of the acutest symptoms is patients’ experiencing back and abdominal pain. It usually happens when the IVC filter passing through the blood vessels, gets lodged in some other vein or organ. When this pain gets linked to a particular body movement, it is essential for the patient to consult a doctor instantly. A thorough examination is the need of the hour. It is to ensure that the device hasn’t shifted from its desired location.
- Experiencing pain in the lower quarters
IVC filters are useful in minimizing the risks related to DVT (Deep vein thrombosis). It is helpful in averting clots forming in the pelvic region and legs that might go up to the lungs. It can further result in pulmonary embolism. The extreme pain might signify a filter perforation or migration. It should never get overlooked. Additionally, painfully swollen legs might also be a sign of clogged filters.
- Symptoms associated with the heart
There are times when the IVC filter might get fractured. It results in struts that reach up to your heart. Some of the symptoms for the same include:
- Neck pain
- Confusion
- Chest pain
- Nausea
- Short breath
- Light-headedness
- An unusually rapid heart rate
The essential asymptomatic issues to be aware of
It is possible that an IVC filter migration doesn’t show any symptoms in the body at all. It is because the blood vessels possess nerve endings. It might make specific injuries that have no signs at all. Hence, this can be a hazardous situation, since the patient is unaware of any problems that might have already occurred. Patients’ will not be able to discern anything until they get a CT scan or an X-Ray.
Hence, it is essential to remember that even a slight movement of the IVC filter might make significant veins to tear. And this can keep aggravating until the situation becomes grave, ultimately leading to invasive surgery. Therefore, exercise caution beforehand and stay aware of the significant IVC Filter complication symptoms.