Vena Caval Filters in Pulmonary Embolism

Lisa K. Moores; Victor F. Tapson

doi:10.1055/s-2001-18491

Seminars in Vascular Medicine, Table of Contents

Semin Vasc Med 2001; 01(2): 221-228
DOI: 10.1055/s-2001-18491

Vena Caval Filters in Pulmonary Embolism

Lisa K. Moores¹ , Victor F. Tapson²

¹Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, WD 77, Washington, DC
²Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Since the early 1900s, surgical interruption of the inferior vena cava (IVC) has been utilized in the management of venous thromboembolism (VTE). With the advent of newer-generation percutaneous devices in the late 1970s, their use and indications have expanded. The literature to support their efficacy, however, is limited to several case series and a single randomized controlled trial. Despite this, some have advocated the use of IVC filters as primary treatment of VTE in certain patient populations. In addition, there has been a large amount of interest in their use as prophylaxis against pulmonary embolism (PE) in high-risk patients. In the past 10 years, we have also seen the development and initial use of temporary devices, although their role in the management of this disease is even less certain. This article will review the recent literature on efficacy, complications, and indications for the use of IVC filters in the prevention and treatment of PE.

KEYWORD

Pulmonary embolism - deep venous thrombosis - inferior vena caval filters

Full Text

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