Shija Hospital performs first Inferior Vena Cava filter placement procedure
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, March 04 2023:
Shija Hospitals and Research Institute Pvt Ltd (SHRI) has performed the first Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filter placement procedure in a pregnant patient in the State.
According to a statement issued by SHRI, the 32-year old patient was referred to the hospital with a case of right leg DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) while being 37 weeks pregnant.
Diagnosis of right leg DVT was made in August 2022 and Heparin (a blood thinner) was initiated for the treatment of DVT.
However, due to falling platelet count, it was stopped by the treating doctor.
Since the thrombus persisted, she was referred to SHRI for further management.
During the initial workup of the case, a clinical diagnosis of APLA (Anti Phospholipid Antibody Syndrome) was made.
An expert opinion of a hematologist was also sought to confirm the diagnosis.
APLA is an autoimmune disease in which the body produces antibodies which can form clots in the vessels.
A multidisciplinary approach was taken towards the management of the case including the physician, Dr Chakshu, Anaesthesiologists Dr Kennedy, Dr Kajal, Interventional Radiologist, Dr Gautam Thangjam and Gynaecologist, Dr Subodha.
Heparin was restarted along with steroid and other supportive medications, the statement added.
Following this, a pre-anaesthetic check up was done on the patient and a planned elective Caesarean Section (CS) was made.
After weighing the risks and benefits of the case, the anaesthesia team and the interventional radiologist decided to get an IVC filter placed preoperatively.
The alternative plan of general anaesthesia for the CS was also discussed with the family.
It may be noted that Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filter is a metal device that is placed in the IVC which helps to trap blood clots and hence prevent VTE.
In a first of its kind in the State, the procedure was done successfully by Dr Gautam Thangjam.
After four days of the IVC filter placement, the patient was taken up for Caesarean Section on February 21 .
The procedure was uneventful and a live, healthy baby was delivered by the gynaecologist, the statement concluded.