A single center experience with retrievable IVC filters.

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Interventional Radiology
• Medical Device Evaluation

Background:

• Retrievable inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are used to prevent pulmonary embolism.
• Assessing the performance and retrieval rates of these devices is crucial for patient safety and optimal treatment.
• A structured follow-up program is essential for managing IVC filter retrieval.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the retrievable IVC filters used at our institution.
• To assess the success rates and complications associated with IVC filter retrieval.
• To analyze factors influencing filter retrieval and identify common reasons for failure.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study analyzing medical records of patients with retrievable IVC filters.
• Inclusion criteria: filter insertions between July 2007 and August 2011.
• Data analysis included demographics, indications, complications, retrieval rates, and filter brands; statistical analysis used Chi-square and t-tests.

Main Results:

• A total of 484 patients were reviewed; 258 had complete records. Over half (52.7%) of IVC filters were ultimately used as permanent.
• Retrieval was attempted in 73 patients (28.2%), with a 94.5% success rate. Filter tilting was the primary cause of retrieval failure.
• Bard filters were most commonly used as retrievable (80.9%), and retrieval success rates for Celect and Tulip filters were significantly lower than for Bard.

Conclusions:

• Retrievable IVC filters can be successfully retrieved with low complication rates.
• A significant proportion of IVC filters are converted to permanent use.
• Filter tilting is a key factor contributing to failed IVC filter retrieval.