Inferior vena caval filters: 5 years of experience in a tertiary care center.
OBJECTIVE
Interruption of the Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) is recommended in certain cases to prevent Pulmonary Embolism (PE). Reported data on the efficacy and rate of complications vary considerably.


METHODS
We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients who had a temporary or permanent IVC filter inserted at our institution during the past 5 years.


RESULTS
Seventy-seven of 225 patients (34%) with Venous Thrombosis (VT) had an IVC filter inserted. Deep vein thrombosis and PE were the most common causes for anticoagulation. Bleeding was the reason for IVC filter insertion in 48 (62%). The only complication found was the breaking of a temporary filter during removal related to the procedure. However, 3 patients (out of 10) had a recurrence of VT after prolonged discontinuation of anticoagulation.


CONCLUSIONS
Our criteria for indication of IVC filter insertion are in line with current standard of care. The immediate and delayed complications caused by IVC filter insertion was low. Active bleeding was the most common indication for filter insertion, whereas inherited thrombophilia was relatively common.
Department of Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. jalal.saour1945@gmail.com
Jalal
J
Saour
Abdulaziz
A
Al Harthi
Mona
M
El Sherif
Ebtisam
E
Bakhsh
Layla
L
Mammo
D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D020878:Device Removal; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006470:Hemorrhage / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011655:Pulmonary Embolism / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012008:Recurrence; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D019851:Thrombophilia / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D016306:Vena Cava Filters / Q000009:adverse effects; D020246:Venous Thrombosis / Q000628:therapy*
D000925:Anticoagulants