Page 43 - Virtual Vascular Vol 8

Indication to IVC filter insertion

Absolute indication • Proven VTE but contra-indicated to anticoagulation
• Proven VTE with complications of anticoagulation

• Recurrent VTE despite the use of anticoagulation
IVC Filter

Relative indication • Proven VTE but with poor cardiopulmonary reserve
• Large, floating iliofemoral thrombus
• Following thrombectomy or thrombolysis of DVT

• Poor compliance to anticoagulation

Potential/ controversial • Prophylaxis for high risk patients with trauma/ surgery/

indication malignancy

VTE = venous thromboembolism

Complications of IVC filter Rate (%)

Pulmonary embolism 2-5

Insertion site complications, e.g. bleeding, infection, air embolism, 4-11
Thrombus filled pneumothorax, vessels injury, etc.
IVC below the

filter Venous access site thrombosis 2-28

Migration of filter 3-69

Penetration of IVC 9-24

Obstruction of IVC 6-30

Venous insufficiency 5-59

Filter fracture 1

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