Retrievable Inferior Vena Cava Filters: A 10-Year Retrospective Analysis

Introduction: Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are an effective form of venous thromboembolism prophylaxis when treatment with anticoagulation is contraindicated. In recent times, the retrievable IVC filter has gained favour in clinical practice as it circumvents the consequences of permanent filters, such as deep venous thrombosis. This study is a retrospective review of the retrievability of IVC filters since their introduction in our department.Methods: Retrospective analysis was conducted on 118 consecutive adult patients (mean age 63.6 years) who underwent IVC filter insertion over a 10-year period. Patient data, including underlying medical condition, indication for filter insertion, number of retrievals, and filter complications, were recorded. Dwell time was calculated using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis.Results: Among the 118 patients, the most common indication for filter insertion was bleeding due to anticoagulation therapy. Mean dwell time for IVC filters was 101.7 days. One patient died before retrieval. The overall successful retrieval rate was 89.0%. Among the 13 patients whose filters could not be retrieved, nine required lifelong anticoagulation and four were lost to follow-up. Three patients developed lower limb deep venous thrombosis due to delayed filter retrieval.Conclusion: The majority of these filters can be retrieved successfully within the first year of insertion. Retrievable IVC filters are a feasible alternative to traditional permanent IVC filters. Complicating factors occur in a small percentage of these patients, which may prevent successful retrieval.