National trends in utilization of inferior vena cava filters in the United States, 2000-2009

IVC filters—Trends in placement and indications, a study of 2 populations

“…Kuy et al [33] analyzed the NIS data from 2000 to 2009 and found a 234% increase in IVCF placement over the decade. They also found that roughly 84.7% of the patients had a PE or DVT.…”

Inferior vena cava filter retrieval provides no advantage in the average patient

“…Despite the frequency of filter placement in the trauma and bariatric population, the majority of filters being placed in the last decade (57.1%) are in the 50-to 79-year-old demographic, 84.7% of whom have a diagnosis of DVT or PE. 5 This argues for the choice of our base case.…”

“…1,2 The rate of IVC filter placement in the United States has dramatically risen during previous decades, 3,4 with a 234% increase in IVC filter use from 2000 to 2009. 5 Filter design advances now allow catheter-based retrieval. Accordingly, consideration of the risks and benefits of retrieval has become increasingly important.…”

Inferior Vena Cava Filter Fracture: Potential Liability for Emergency Physicians

“…Paralleling this increase, a rise in complications is also anticipated, including IVC filter migration, embolization and strut fracture. 1 The incidence of IVC filter strut fracture ranges from 2% to a predicted 40% at 5.5 years. 2 , 3 Strut fracture may predispose an IVC filter or a portion thereof to embolize and may also alter flow mechanics, decreasing the IVC filter’s ability to prevent a pulmonary embolism.…”

“… 2 , 3 Strut fracture may predispose an IVC filter or a portion thereof to embolize and may also alter flow mechanics, decreasing the IVC filter’s ability to prevent a pulmonary embolism. 1 In 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued warnings regarding the safety of IVC filters after life-threatening complications occurred from filter fracture and embolization of filter limbs, including ventricular wall laceration resulting in cardiac tamponade and tachycardia induced by cardiac irritation. 4 , 5 Given these risks, failure to identify and refer patients with IVC filter fracture for further evaluation and potential retrieval may represent a potential liability for emergency physicians in the event of embolization and subsequent injury.…”