This article compares two approaches side by side to clarify how they differ in principle and practice. Left untreated, extensive iliofemoral DVT is associated with a higher risk of long-term complications such as post-thrombotic syndrome, marked by chronic swelling and discomfort. As a medical device manufacturer, INVAMED develops technologies in this area; the information here is educational and not medical advice.
Background: Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Whether an interventional approach is appropriate is a clinical decision that weighs clot age, location, bleeding risk, and overall condition. Deep vein thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot within the deep veins, most often in the legs, and it can cause pain, swelling, and — if a fragment travels to the lungs — pulmonary embolism. Techniques include mechanical thrombectomy, aspiration thrombectomy, and pharmacomechanical approaches that combine device action with a clot-dissolving drug.
Retrievable IVC filter vs Permanent IVC filter: Key Differences
Retrievable filters are designed to be removed once the risk of pulmonary embolism subsides, whereas permanent filters remain in place indefinitely. Removing a filter when no longer needed avoids long-term complications such as filter fracture or vein wall interaction. INVAMED's MultiBEAM is a retrievable design intended to protect during the high-risk window and then be retrieved. Whether and when to retrieve is a clinical decision tied to ongoing risk.
How INVAMED Supports Both Approaches
Device availability and regulatory status vary by country. Please contact INVAMED or your authorized local distributor for current regulatory information applicable to your region.
Key Considerations
- Retrievable IVC filters are intended to be removed once protection is no longer needed, per current guidance.
- Large-bore aspiration requires appropriately sized access and attention to blood-loss management.
- Clot age and location strongly influence which mechanism — aspiration, rotation, or pharmacomechanical — is most suitable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does thrombectomy replace blood thinners?
No. Catheter thrombectomy removes existing clot but is generally used alongside anticoagulation, not as a replacement; management is individualized.
Is the MultiBEAM IVC filter retrievable?
Yes. INVAMED describes MultiBEAM as a retrievable IVC filter, designed to be removed once the risk of pulmonary embolism has passed.
Who is a candidate for catheter-based clot removal?
Candidacy is a clinical decision based on clot extent, location, symptoms, and bleeding risk; this content is educational only.
Clinical and Technical Context
CDT is typically reserved for selected patients after careful bleeding-risk evaluation. Retrievable filters are intended to avoid the long-term risks associated with permanently implanted filters. Device choice within a mechanical approach depends on clot location, chronicity, and vessel size. Techniques include mechanical thrombectomy, aspiration thrombectomy, and pharmacomechanical approaches that combine device action with a clot-dissolving drug. Large-bore aspiration requires appropriately sized access and attention to blood-loss management. All INVAMED thrombectomy devices are for use by trained interventionalists under imaging guidance and per the IFU. Effective aspiration depends on matching catheter bore to the target vessel and clot burden. Endovascular thrombus removal aims to restore venous flow quickly and, in appropriate cases, to reduce the risk of post-thrombotic syndrome. Retrievable IVC filters are intended to be removed once protection is no longer needed, per current guidance. Whether an interventional approach is appropriate is a clinical decision that weighs clot age, location, bleeding risk, and overall condition. Left untreated, extensive iliofemoral DVT is associated with a higher risk of long-term complications such as post-thrombotic syndrome, marked by chronic swelling and discomfort. INVAMED's Mantis XP is positioned specifically for fistula thrombectomy.
Related on INVAMED
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) — product category
- Mantis CURVE Over-the-Wire (OTW) Rotational Pharmacomechanical Thrombectomy System — Technical Overview
- Comparing Mechanical thrombectomy and Thrombolysis alone
- Thrombectomy vs Anticoagulation for DVT: What Is the Difference?
Important Disclaimer
This article is intended for general educational and technical information about medical device technologies. It is not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment recommendation, and it does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Any decision about diagnosis or treatment should be made by a licensed clinician based on an individual assessment. INVAMED devices are intended for use by trained healthcare professionals in accordance with the applicable Instructions for Use (IFU) and local regulatory approvals. Product availability and indications vary by country.
Reviewed by the INVAMED Medical Affairs team. Content is educational and technical in nature.