What are some common IVC filter complications?

Problems that may occur with the usage of an inferior vena cava, or IVC, filter include complications associated with the access site, malposition, and defective filter deployment, reports PubMed Central. Delayed complications include migration, thrombosis, filter fracture, IVC perforation, pulmonary embolism and device infection.

Complications associated with access to the filter placement site are minor and include bleeding, hematoma, inadvertent arterial puncture and infection, notes PubMed Central. Malposition is often an avoidable complication, achieved by placing the filter in such a way that the tip is positioned at the level of the renal vein. This positioning also helps to prevent thrombosis. Defective filter deployment is a more common complication, which has risks relating to filter efficiency and migration.