Vena cava filters: available devices and current practices

Deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolus are significant clinical problems. Although anticoagulation remains first-line therapy for thromboembolic disease, the placement of inferior vena cava filters plays an important role as alternative or supplemental therapy. Initial filters were high-profile devices intended to be placed via surgical cutdown. Concerns about the size of the delivery systems prompted development of low-profile systems intended specifically for percutaneous placement. The placement of filters has progressively become a percutaneous procedure performed by interventional radiologists outside of the operating room. This article reviews the currently available devices that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, their indications, efficacy, and complications. Experimental temporary filter designs are discussed as well.