When precision saves lives

Blood clots can become life-threatening if they enter the lungs. To prevent this, a special filter is inserted into the body’s largest vein – the inferior vena cava (IVC). Referred to as an IVC filter, this device blocks clots before they trigger a life-threatening pulmonary embolism. Tegra Medical, a company of the SFS Group, develops and manufactures high-precision components that enable the safe placement and removal of these filters, helping to protect patients from serious consequences.

Added value

Constructive collaboration with specialists for optimal, tailor-made solutions
Reduced risk of complications thanks to the combination of state-of-the-art technology and in-depth know-how
High-precision components improve patient outcomes and strengthen surgeon trust

When medication is not enough
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when blood clots form in the deep veins of the body, usually in the legs. These clots hinder the flow of blood, which can have serious consequences: If part of the clot breaks loose, it “travels” via the veins and heart into the lungs, where it can block a blood vessel. This is known as pulmonary embolism – the most dangerous complication of DVT and potentially life-threatening.

Anticoagulants, drugs that reduce blood’s ability to clot, are generally prescribed to reduce blood clot formation or dissolve existing clots. Anticoagulants increase bleeding risk, however, which in turn can lead to internal bleeding and other serious side effects. That means not all patients tolerate these drugs and clots may recur, even despite treatment.

In cases such as this, doctors implant a filter into the inferior vena cava (IVC), the body’s largest vein. The filter acts like a small net that catches clots before they reach the lungs, minimizing the risk of life-threatening complications.

AdobeStock_579735573_mod — The inferior vena cava filter (IVC)

When precision matters
Depending on the patient’s condition and anatomy, the IVC filter is inserted via catheter through either the femoral vein in the groin or the jugular vein. The catheter transports the compressed filter through the blood vessels and places it precisely in the inferior vena cava. After insertion, the filter unfolds and anchors itself to the vessel walls so that it reliably stops the clot. The IVC filter can remain in the body for an extended period of time and is removed once the clot has dissolved on its own.

bardjugularfemoral01_mit_BG_final_1920px — The jugular and femoral catheters are each approximately 1 meter long

Tegra Medical, a company of the SFS Group, manufactures key components for both insertion systems (via the femoral or jugular vein), including femoral wires, jugular grippers and push pads. These long, flexible, plastic-coated guide wires and grippers are manufactured to extremely tight tolerances. This ensures that surgeons can safely and precisely navigate the catheter with the compressed IVC filter through the vascular tract, position it correctly and remove it again where necessary.

Franklin_Produktion_003_1920px — Franklin (USA) is where precision is created down to the smallest detail

When know-how makes the difference
The development and manufacture of these highly critical components requires state-of-the-art manufacturing expertise. Tegra Medical uses sophisticated Swiss machining and grinding techniques to achieve smooth surfaces and precise profiles, thereby maximizing the guide wires’ flexibility and maneuverability. Innovative processes like laser processing, sandblasting and heat treatment guarantee precisely shaped tips while ensuring the product’s strength and stability. These properties are critical for surgeons’ ability to use the IVC filter safely, which in turn minimizes the risk of vascular injury.

IVC filters illustrate just how critical our precision manufacturing and our know-how of combining metal and plastic are for life-saving medical devices.