The Particulars: Studies have had varied results on the safety and validity of inferior vena cava (IVC) filter use to prevent iatrogenic pulmonary embolism (PE) that can result from percutaneous endovenous interventions (PEVI) for lower extremity DVT.
Data Breakdown: For a study, patients undergoing PEVI for lower extremity DVT were randomized to receive an inferior vena cava filter or did not receive a filter. New PE was detected in 1.4% of patients in the filter group, compared with an 11.3% rate for the no filter group. Filter removal was performed in about one-third of patients at an average of 180 days, with zero complications.
Take Home Pearl: Use of IVC filters among patient undergoing PEVI for lower extremity DVT appears to lead to a significant reduction in the development of iatrogenic PE.
