IVC filters are used to prevent pulmonary thromboembolism when the adequate anticoagulation is not effective, or contra indicated. There has been a tremendous growth in placement of retrievable IVC filters in the past decade, yet most of the devices are not removed. Unretrieved IVC filters have several well-known complications that increase in frequency as the filter dwell time increases. These complications include cava wall penetration, filter fracture or migration, cava thrombosis and an increased risk for lower extremity deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The risks of complex filter retrievals should be compared with those of life-long anticoagulation associated with an unretrieved filter and should be individualized. The removal of IVC filters requires specific skills and expertise.
- Daye D, Walker TG. Novel and Advanced Techniques for Complex IVC Filter Retrieval. Curr Treat Options Cardiovasc Med. 2017 Apr;19(4):28. doi: 10.1007/s11936-017-0529-3.
