Inferior Vena Cava Filters in Venous Thromboembolism

Vena cava filters have been used for the prevention of pulmonary embolism in patients with venous thromboembolism since the 1930s. Historically, vena cava filters were used in patients with either a contraindication to or a complication of systemic anticoagulation or in those with recurrent pulmonary embolism despite adequate anticoagulation. However, indications for placement have broadened even in the absence of support from randomized controlled trials as the deployment procedure became less complex. With more recently available optional retrievable filters, physicians have another valuable tool to use for the treatment of venous thromboembolism in patients who are not candidates for systemic anticoagulation or, perhaps, more importantly, have only a temporary indication for filtration. As with permanent filters, there is a clinical need for robust clinical studies to establish appropriate indications and define long-term outcomes because there are only case series to guide the current usage of such filters.