SVC Filter Implantation

Upper Extremity Deep Vein Thrombosis (UEDVT) is the thrombosis of axillary and/or subclavian veins, and is classified as primary or secondary based on the origin of the condition. It is less common than DVT in lower extremities. The most common cause of primary UEDVT is heavy physical exercise such as weightlifting, playing sports like cricket, tennis, rowing etc., or performing repetitive overhead tasks like painting or car repair. The condition is more frequently observed in young men who are otherwise healthy and lead an active lifestyle. Heavy exertion in the dominant arm causes microtrauma to the blood vessels, leading to activation of blood coagulants that may cause an embolism.

Although, thrombosis of the upper extremities is less prevalent and poses lower risk of further complications, it may cause severe discomfort to the patient.

• Swelling and tenderness in the affected arm, cyanosis, arm and hand edema, jugular venous distension are some of the resulting symptoms in patients
• In some cases, patients may also experience transient paresthesia and face difficulty in performing overhead or repetitive activities
• To address this, Superior Vena Cava (SVC) filters are implanted that reduce the discomfort caused by this condition in patients and helps in improving their quality of life
• SVC filter implantation is an image-guided, minimally invasive procedure that does not leave scarring or require long post-operative care
• In most cases, general anesthesia or mild sedatives coupled with local anesthesia is administered to patients
• Some patients may not even require overnight observation at the hospital if the physician decides so