Related Experiment Videos
Vena caval filters in pulmonary embolism
1Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, WD 77, Washington, DC, USA.
Seminars in Vascular Medicine
|June 17, 2004
Summary
Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters help manage venous thromboembolism (VTE) and prevent pulmonary embolism (PE). Current evidence is limited, but IVC filters are increasingly used for treatment and prophylaxis in high-risk patients.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Interventional Radiology
- Cardiology
Background:
- Inferior vena cava (IVC) interruption for venous thromboembolism (VTE) dates to the early 1900s.
- Percutaneous IVC filters emerged in the late 1970s, expanding indications and use.
- Limited evidence, primarily case series and one RCT, supports IVC filter efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- Review recent literature on IVC filter efficacy.
- Discuss complications and indications for IVC filter use.
- Evaluate IVC filters in VTE treatment and pulmonary embolism (PE) prevention.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on IVC filters.
- Analysis of efficacy, complications, and indications.
- Examination of temporary IVC filter use and role.
Main Results:
- IVC filters are advocated for VTE treatment in select populations.
- Significant interest exists in using IVC filters for PE prophylaxis in high-risk patients.
- The role of temporary IVC filters remains uncertain.
Conclusions:
- IVC filters are a key tool in managing VTE and preventing PE.
- Further research is needed to clarify optimal indications and efficacy.
- Temporary devices require more investigation for definitive roles.