Many patients who are diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary emboli (clots in the lungs) may not be candidates for blood thinning medicine due to the risk of falls or persistent bleeding.  For these patients, we can protect their lungs from blood clots by placing a small filter (similar to a reverse umbrella) into their large vein to capture any loose clots from injuring lung tissue.  This is performed by placing a small catheter into their veins under local anesthesia and placing the device through the catheter.  The filter can be permanent or temporary based upon the patient’s condition and is removeable when medically necessary.