Comparing two methods for removing IVC filters

Prospective Comparison of Rigid Forceps Versus Endovascular Snare for Routine IVC Filter Retrieval

Not applicable Interventional University of Chicago · NCT04092192

This study is testing two different ways to remove IVC filters to see which one works better and is quicker for patients who have had these filters for less than six months.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Chicago Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (Chicago, Illinois)
Trial IDNCT04092192 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to compare two common techniques for the removal of inferior vena cava (IVC) filters: the endovascular snare device and rigid forceps. By prospectively evaluating these methods, the study seeks to determine which technique offers better success rates and shorter procedure times, thereby minimizing radiation exposure. The research will be conducted at UChicago Medicine, focusing on patients who have had IVC filters implanted for less than six months. Both techniques have been previously evaluated independently, but this study will provide a direct comparison.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are non-pregnant adults aged 18 and older who require IVC filter removal within six months of implantation.

Not a fit: Patients with filters implanted for more than six months or those with specific medical conditions such as coagulopathy or central venous occlusion may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved IVC filter removal techniques, enhancing patient safety and outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While both techniques have been evaluated separately in literature, this direct comparison is novel and has not been previously tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Non-pregnant females
* Adult patients (age 18 years and older)
* Referred to Interventional Radiology for IVC filter removal
* IVC filter implanted less than 6 months with the procedure being performed at UCMC by current IR staff.
* Cook Celect filter or Argon Medical Option Elite

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with outside hospital filter placement
* Filters other than Cook Celect or Argon Medical Option Elite
* Implantation period \>6 months
* Evidence of coagulopathy (INR \<1.8, platelet count \>50k)
* Clotting disorder
* Central venous occlusion
* Prior filter placement/removal.

Where this trial is running

Chicago, Illinois

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions DVTIVC filter, filter removal, filter retrieval
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.