Inferior Vena Cavagram and Filter Placement

An inferior vena cavagram is a procedure in which a thin flexible tube called a catheter is inserted through a vein usually in the neck or groin which allows the physician to take x-ray pictures of the large central vein that serves as a highway for blood return to the heart from the extremities. This is done to evaluate for placement of an inferior vena cava filter. This is a medical device that is permanently inserted into the inferior vena cava below the level of the kidneys to prevent blood clots from the veins in the legs from reaching the lungs.

Why you are having this procedure (symptoms/indications):

There are several reasons a person might have a inferior vena cavagram and filter placement, and these include: (1) a person has known blood clots in the legs; (2) a person who has a history of blood clots in the lungs; or (3) a person who is at very high risk of blood clots in the legs or lungs.

Prep for the procedure:

There is very little preparation for this procedure. You will likely be asked not to eat or drink for 8 to 12 hours prior to the procedure. Also, you will need to arrange to have someone drive you home after the procedure.

What to expect:

Prior to the beginning of the procedure, you will be given a sedative which will make you feel relaxed and drowsy. However, you will still be able to be awoken if necessary. Then, the area where the catheter will be inserted is numbed with a local anesthetic. Then, the catheter is inserted and the procedure is performed.

Risks:

Complications from this procedure are rare, and the risk of death is very low. Possible risks include: (1) allergic reaction to the dye which can be treated with medicine; (2) damage to the kidneys from the dye; (3) bleeding can occur at the site where the catheter is inserted; and (4) although uncommon, blood clots can form around the catheter or clumps of plaque can be knocked loose from the walls of the veins during the procedure and can trigger a blood clot in the lung or leg.

Post procedure instructions/limitations:

You will be asked to do no heavy lifting of greater than 5 pounds for approximately 2-3 days after the procedure due to possible bleeding from the site where the catheter was inserted. You will also be asked not to take a tub bath until the site where the catheter was inserted is healed; this will help you avoid infection. You can usually return to your normal activities over approximately 1 week.

When to call your cardiologist:

You should call your cardiologist immediately and/or return to the emergency department immediately if you experience acute onset of chest pain and/or shortness of breath or if you experience rapid swelling or bleeding at the site where the catheter was inserted.

Miscellaneous:

You should follow all the instructions that your healthcare provider gives you.

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