Patient Education

Heart Health Library

Our Health Library does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their heart health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Vena cava filter

A vena cava filter is an umbrella-shaped barrier device that is inserted into the large vein that returns blood to the heart from the abdomen and legs (inferior vena cava). This filter may help prevent blood clots that form in the deep veins of the lower limbs from traveling to the lungs, where they may block blood flow.

Vena cava filters are inserted into the vena cava using a catheter inserted through a vein in the neck or groin.