title: Asymptomatic thrombus trapping in vena cava filters: a case series.
abstract: The prophylactic use of vena cava filters (VCFs) remains controversial. Class I data supporting the placement of prophylactic VCFs are lacking. In addition, there are concerns regarding the long-term effects of permanent VCF placement in patients with a relatively brief period of thromboembolic risk. Venous thromboembolism can be a lethal event, occurring without a prodrome. Yet, this condition is potentially preventable. The efficacy of VCFs is difficult to determine, as it is likely that when a VCF actually traps a thrombus, the event is clinically asymptomatic. We present three cases of asymptomatic thrombus trapping in VCFs, recognized through incidental radiographic studies.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center-Carolinas HealthCare System, PO Box 32861, Charlotte, NC 28232-2861, USA.
authors.forename: Oliver L
authors.initials: OL
authors.lastname: Gunter
authors.forename: Ronald F
authors.initials: RF
authors.lastname: Sing
authors.forename: Michael J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Rosen
authors.forename: Kent W
authors.initials: KW
authors.lastname: Kercher
authors.forename: B Todd
authors.initials: BT
authors.lastname: Heniford
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011859:Radiography; D013923:Thromboembolism / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D016306:Vena Cava Filters