Medically reviewed by Jeffrey S. Lander, MD The inferior vena cava (also known as IVC or the posterior vena cava) is a large vein that carries oxygen-depleted blood from the torso and lower body to ...

Inferior vena cava filters are often used for prophylaxis in patients deemed to be a high risk for pulmonary embolism (e.g. bariatric surgery in the super-obese), although whether or not this ...