The Inferior Vena Cava Filter Placement Parameters May Predict Filter Retrieval Outcomes

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Interventional Radiology
• Medical Device Engineering

Background:

• Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are crucial for preventing pulmonary embolism.
• Understanding factors influencing retrievable IVC filter placement and retrieval is essential for patient safety.
• Filter malposition and challenging retrieval can lead to complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between IVC filter placement factors and retrieval outcomes.
• To identify factors influencing the placement tilt angle of retrievable IVC filters.
• To determine predictors of complex filter retrieval procedures.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 163 patients undergoing retrievable IVC filter placement and retrieval.
• Data collection included patient characteristics and filter-related factors.
• Complex retrieval defined by fluoroscopy time (>8 minutes) or advanced techniques; regression models used to analyze influencing factors.

Main Results:

• All 163 filters were successfully retrieved; 22.7% were complex retrievals.
• IVC diameter (16 ± 1.8 mm), filter hook abutment, and dwell time were associated with complex retrieval.
• IVC diameter, patient age, and filter brand significantly influenced filter placement tilt.

Conclusions:

• IVC diameter at placement is a key predictor of retrieval difficulty.
• Filter hook abutment and prolonged dwell time increase the risk of complex IVC filter retrieval.
• IVC diameter is closely related to the degree of filter tilt, impacting placement accuracy.