Inferior Vena Cava Filter Insertion

Inferior vena cava filtration is a common albeit controversial practice. Filter insertion varies widely by hospital. In my practice, nearly all patients with deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism who are unable to undergo anticoagulation receive an inferior vena cava filter. Retrievable filters are also placed prophylactically in high-risk patients prior to elective surgery.

SUGGESTED READINGS

• 1 Henkle G, Kunz P, Funaki B. Patterns of referral for inferior vena caval filtration: delays and their impact.  AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2004;  183 1021-1024
• 2 Kinney T B. Inferior vena cava filters.  Semin Intervent Radiol. 2006;  23 230-239