inferior vena cava (IVC) filter: indications

• contraindication to anticoagulation
• failure of anticoagulation
• complication of anticoagulation: hemorrhage or thrombocytopenia
• large free-floating IVC/iliac vein thrombus

expanded indications:

• cor pulmonale and DVT/PE
• patients with high risk of complications to anticoagulation
  • metastatic disease
  • syncope in elderly
• prophylactic placement in high-risk trauma patients
  • spinal cord injury
  • severe head injury
  • complex pelvic fractures
  • multiple long bone fractures
• prophylactic placement before hip/knee replacement in patients with prior DVT

prophylactic filters remain controversial

see also: types of IVC filters

© 2002, C.E. Kahn, Jr.
2002-04-18