Venous · IR Playbook

Inferior Vena Cava Filter Retrieval (IVCF retrieval)

Inferior vena cava filter retrieval is the percutaneous removal of a retrievable or convertible caval filter once the risk of pulmonary embolism has been mitigated, most commonly by right internal jugular snare capture of the filter hook and collapse of the device into a coaxial retrieval sheath. In contemporary prospective multicentre practice with planned follow-up, retrieval is successful in about 96.8% of attempts at a mean of 3.3 months after implantation. Failure of standard snaring is driven by hook embedment, severe tilt, trapped thrombus and prolonged dwell time, and is addressed by advanced techniques (loop snare, hangman, rigid endobronchial forceps, excimer laser sheath) in experienced centres. The main hazards are caval injury, filter fracture with fragment retention or embolisation, and recurrent venous thromboembolism after device removal.

What this playbook covers

• Indications
• Contraindications
• Pre-procedure
• Anatomy and Planning
• Equipment
• Procedure Steps
• Technical Endpoints
• Variants
• Comparisons
• Troubleshooting
• Complications
• Post-procedure Care
• References

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