Extended interval for retrieval of vena cava filters is safe and may maximize protection against pulmonary embolism

Early Lower Extremity Fracture Fixation and the Risk of Early Pulmonary Embolus: Filter Before Fixation?

“…29,30 The decision to place prophylactic vena cava filters could be shifted, and if that decision is made, the decision regarding timing of filter placement could be effected as well. [11][12][13]31 It may be that prophylactic IVC filters should be placed on admission in high-risk patients, or before orthopedic fixation procedures. Previous research from our own institution has demonstrated that an institutional protocol significantly improves the rate of attempted retrieval of vena cava filters from 42% to 95% in appropriate patients may make temporary IVC filter placement an even more attractive and lower long-term risk option.…”

“…8 -10 In these patients with contraindications to early chemical prophylaxis, a renewed interest with retrievable inferior vena cava (IVC) filters has recently developed. [11][12][13] Despite this renewed interest, those characteristics of patients at highest risk for PE in this early vulnerable window postinjury, who would benefit greatest from aggressive early PE prevention strategies, remain poorly characterized.…”

Prophylactic Inferior Vena Cava Filters: Do They Make a Difference in Trauma Patients?

“…Stefanidis et al 23 suggested that trauma patients should have recovered from their injuries and be at least 30 days postdischarge, or be on a stable regimen of therapeutic anticoagulation for the treatment of a DVT or PE for at least 2 weeks. During outpatient follow-up visits at our institution, the original indications for IVC filters were again reviewed with the patient, as well as the process for retrieval of the filter.…”

Inferior vena cava filters in the management of cancer-associated venous thromboembolism: a systematic review

“…There is no consensus on the average implantation time (time in situ), after which RFs can be removed safely. Though several observational studies have noted safe removal after implantation times ranging from 9 [75] to 475 [76] days, most manufacturers recommend a maximum implantation time of 10-14 days [77]. In addition, there are no strict guidelines regarding the retrieval of filters with trapped emboli which may be present in 3-50% of RFs at the time of retrieval; therefore, the retrieval decision in these instances requires a case-by-case assessment of the risks and benefits on continued filtration.…”