Insertion of Inferior Vena Cava Filter Prior to Removal of Prolonged Indwelling Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Catheters

Abstract

Venous thromboembolism and pulmonary embolism are potentially fatal complications that could occur after extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Prophylactic insertion of inferior vena cava filters prior to decannulation of prolonged indwelling ECMO catheters is a sound approach to lower the risk of these complications. We present the cases of two patients for whom inferior vena cava filter was prophylactically inserted prior to removal of ECMO catheter; details of the technique are described.

Use of a dual lumen cannula for venovenous extra corporeal membrane oxygenation in a patient with acute respiratory distress syndrome and a previously inserted inferior vena cava filter: a case report

“…Gothner et al ( 8 ) described the use of the DL cannula in trauma patients, but none have been described to have a previously inserted inferior vena cava filter. Luk et al ( 9 ) described the insertion of an inferior vena cava filter prior to ECMO decannulation as a prophylactic approach to lower the risk of embolism. Femoro-jugular cannulation is traditionally preferred in ARDS patients due to higher flows permitted by the cannulas.…”