Quality improvement guidelines for the performance of inferior vena cava filter placement for the prevention of pulmonary embolism

Inferior vena cava filter use at a large community hospital: a retrospective cohort study

Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are considered when patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE) develop a contraindication to anticoagulation. Use of IVC filters is increasing, despite associated complications and lack of data on efficacy in reducing VTE-related mortality. We characterized the pattern of IVC filter use at a large community hospital between 2018 and 2022. Specifically, we assessed the indications for IVC filter insertion, filter removal rates, and filter-associated complications. Indications for IVC filters were compared to those outlined by current clinical practice guidelines. We reviewed 120 consecutive filter placement events. The most common indications included recent VTE and active bleeding (40.0%) or need for anticoagulation interruption for surgery (25.8%). Approximately one-third (30.0%) of IVC filters were inserted for indications either not supported or addressed by guidelines. Half (50.0%) of patients had successful removal of their IVC filter. At least 13 patients (10.8%) experienced a filter-related complication. In a large community-based practice, nearly one-third of IVC filters were inserted for indications not universally supported by current practice guidelines. Moreover, most IVC filters were not removed, raising the risk of filter-associated complications, and supporting the need for development of comprehensive guidelines addressing use of IVC filters, and post-insertion monitoring practices.

Percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy with single gastropexy using balloon-assisted tract dilatation: comparison with peel-away sheath

PURPOSE

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy (PRG) with balloon-assisted tract dilatation (BATD) using a single gastropexy.

METHODS

This retrospective study was approved by the institutional review board. From August 2018 to October 2022, 61 patients (53 male and 8 female, mean age 67 years, age range 27-90 years) underwent PRG with balloon-retained tubes for enteral nutrition. Single gastropexy was performed in all cases. Patients were divided into two groups based on the tract dilatation technique used. In the first group, BATD (n = 48) was performed. In the second group, a 24-Fr peel-away sheath (PAS) was used for tract dilatation (n = 13). Patient demographics, technical success rate, clinical success rate, fluoroscopy time, cumulative radiation dose, and complications were retrospectively evaluated. The Mann-Whitney U test for continuous variables and Fisher's exact test for categorical variables were performed to compare the two groups.

RESULTS

All procedures were successfully performed with 100% technical and clinical success rates in both groups. The mean fluoroscopy time for the BATD group vs. the PAS group (1.68 ± 0.93 min vs. 3.56 ± 2.41 min, P < 0.001) and mean cumulative radiation dose (12.98 ± 9.28 mGy vs. 33.01 ± 15.14 mGy, P < 0.001) were significantly lower in the BATD group compared with the PAS group. There was one major complication of peritonitis that led to death in the PAS group (1/13, 7.7%) and no major complications in the BATD group. Minor complications such as pneumoperitoneum, abdominal pain, leakage, and balloon deflation occurred in 16 patients: 12 (12/48, 25.0%) patients in the BATD group and 4 (4/13, 38.5%) patients in the PAS group. The overall rate of major and minor complications was higher in the PAS group but did not show statistically significant differences (odds ratio: 1.875, 95%; confidence interval: 0.514-6.841, P = 0.486).

CONCLUSION

BATD using a single gastropexy is a safe and effective technique for PRG.

Retrievable Inferior Vena Cava Filter Trapped Embolus: A Risk Factor of Detachment of Thrombus Analysis Based on a Multicenter Prospective Observational Study

PURPOSE

Up to now, the indications of inferior vena cava filter placement still remain controversial in the academic field. The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors of detachment of thrombus and to evaluate the necessity of inferior vena cava filter placement to prevent fatal pulmonary embolism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 2892 patients participated in the multicenter prospective observational study from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2018, and underwent retrievable inferior vena cava filter (RIVCF) placement in 103 centers in China. The primary endpoint of the study was RIVCF trapped embolus detected by inferior vena cava venography/ultrasound/computed tomography scanning or visible macroscopic thrombus before or during RIVCF retrieval. The relative factors of RIVCF trapped embolus were analyzed accordingly.

RESULTS

The average age of the patients was 61.0 (50.0-71.0) years. Retrievable inferior vena cava filter trapped embolus occurred in 308 patients (10.65%). The fracture location, surgery location, and endovascular intervention differed between RIVCF trapped embolus and non-RIVCF trapped embolus groups (p<0.001, respectively). By multivariate analysis, RIVCF trapped embolus were less common in older patients (odds ratio [OR]=0.998; p<0.001) and more common in patients with below-the-knee fracture (OR=1.093, p=0.038), thigh fracture (OR=1.118, p=0.007), and pelvis surgery (OR=1.067, p=0.016). In addition, compared with patients without endovascular intervention, patients with percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy (PMT) + catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) were more prone to develop RIVCF trapped embolus (OR=1.060, p=0.010). However, RIVCF trapped embolus was less common in patients with CDT (OR=0.961, p=0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Lower limb fracture, pelvis surgery, and PMT + CDT are prone to cause trapped embolus. As a trapped embolus often represents the possibility of severe pulmonary embolism, lower limb fracture, pelvis surgery, and PMT + CDT could be risk factors of fatal pulmonary embolism. Due to the low incidence of trapped embolus, it is not necessary to place filters in elderly patients and CDT-only patients.

CLINICAL IMPACT

The purpose of this paper is to standardize the use of inferior vena cava filter and avoid unnecessary filter implantation through the summary and analysis of a large number of clinical data. At the same time, more attention should be paid to and active treatment should be given to high-risk groups of pulmonary embolism.

Reengaging patients with forgotten filters through an institutional multidisciplinary approach

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the outcomes of a hospital-wide multidisciplinary initiative to reengage and manage patients with unretrieved chronic indwelling inferior vena cava (IVC) filters placed at a large tertiary care center, who had been lost to follow-up.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of outcomes from a completed multidisciplinary quality improvement project. The quality improvement project identified and contacted (via letter) patients with chronic indwelling IVC filters placed at a single tertiary care center from 2008 to 2016 who were alive and without evidence of filter retrieval in the medical records. A total of 316 eligible patients were mailed a letter regarding their chronic indwelling IVC filter and the updated recommendations regarding IVC filter removal. The letter included institutional contact information, and all the patients who responded were offered a clinic visit to discuss potential filter retrieval. In the retrospective review, we assessed the outcomes of the quality improvement project, including the patient response rate, follow-up clinic visits, new imaging studies generated, retrieval rate, procedural success, and complications. The patient demographics and filter characteristics were collected and evaluated for correlations with the response and retrieval rates.

RESULTS

The patient response rate to the letter was 32% (101 of 316). Of the 101 patients who responded, 72 (71%) were seen in clinic and 59 (82%) underwent new imaging studies. Using standard and advanced techniques, 34 of 36 filters after a median dwell time of 9.4 years (range, 3.3-13.3 years) were successfully retrieved (94% success rate). The patients with a documented IVC filter complication were more likely to respond to the letter (odds ratio, 4.34) and undergo IVC filter retrieval (odds ratio, 6.04). No moderate or severe procedural complications occurred during filter retrieval.

CONCLUSIONS

An institutional, multidisciplinary quality initiative successfully identified and reengaged patients with chronic indwelling IVC filters who had been lost to follow-up. The filter retrieval success rate was high and procedural morbidity low. Institution-wide efforts to identify and retrieve chronic indwelling filters are feasible.

Periprocedural Anticoagulation

Management of patients taking anticoagulants around the time of a procedure is a common and complex clinical scenario. Providing evidence-based care requires estimation of risk for thrombosis and bleeding, knowledge of commonly used medications, multidisciplinary communication and collaboration, and patient engagement and education. This review provides a standardized, evidence-based approach to periprocedural management of anticoagulation, based on current evidence and expert clinical guidelines.

The application of inferior vena cava filters in orthopaedics and current research advances

Deep vein thrombosis is a common clinical peripheral vascular disease that occurs frequently in orthopaedic patients and may lead to pulmonary embolism (PE) if the thrombus is dislodged. pulmonary embolism can be prevented by placing an inferior vena cava filter (IVCF) to intercept the dislodged thrombus. Thus, IVCFs play an important role in orthopaedics. However, the occurrence of complications after inferior vena cava filter placement, particularly recurrent thromboembolism, makes it necessary to carefully assess the risk-benefit of filter placement. There is no accepted statement as to whether IVCF should be placed in orthopaedic patients. Based on the problems currently displayed in the use of IVCFs, an ideal IVCF is proposed that does not affect the vessel wall and haemodynamics and intercepts thrombi well. The biodegradable filters that currently exist come close to the description of an ideal filter that can reduce the occurrence of various complications. Currently available biodegradable IVCFs consist of various organic polymeric materials. Biodegradable metals have shown good performance in making biodegradable IVCFs. However, among the available experimental studies on degradable filters, there are no experimental studies on filters made of degradable metals. This article reviews the use of IVCFs in orthopaedics, the current status of filters and the progress of research into biodegradable vena cava filters and suggests possible future developments based on the published literature by an electronic search of PubMed and Medline databases for articles related to IVCFs searchable by October 2022 and a manual search for citations to relevant studies.

Inferior vena cava filters in pregnancy: Safe or sorry?

Background

Potential hazards of vena cava filters include migration, tilt, perforation, fracture, and in-filter thrombosis. Due to physiological changes during pregnancy, the incidence of these complications might be different in pregnant women.

Aim

To evaluate the use and safety of inferior vena cava filters in both women who had an inferior vena cava filter inserted during pregnancy, and in women who became pregnant with an inferior vena cava filter in situ.

Methods

We performed two searches in the literature using the keywords “vena cava filter”, “pregnancy” and “obstetrics”.

Results

The literature search on women who had a filter inserted during pregnancy yielded 11 articles compiling data on 199 women. At least one filter complication was reported in 33/177 (19%) women and included in-filter thrombosis (n = 14), tilt (n = 6), migration (n = 5), perforation (n = 2), fracture (n = 3), misplacement (n = 1), air embolism (n = 1) and allergic reaction (n = 1). Two (1%) filter complications led to maternal deaths, of which at least one was directly associated with a filter insertion. Filter retrieval failed in 9/149 (6%) women. The search on women who became pregnant with a filter in situ resulted in data on 21 pregnancies in 14 women, of which one (6%) was complicated by uterine trauma, intraperitoneal hemorrhage and fetal death caused by perforation of the inferior vena cava filter.

Conclusion

The risks of filter complications in pregnancy are comparable to the nonpregnant population, but could lead to fetal or maternal death. Therefore, only in limited situations such as extensive thrombosis with a contraindication for anticoagulants, inferior vena filters should be considered in pregnant women.

Safe endovascular retrieval of a vena cava filter after duodenal perforation

The use of vena cava filters (VCF) is a common procedure utilized in the prevention of pulmonary embolism (PE), yet VCFs have some significant and known complications, such as strut penetration and migration. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and PE remain a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. It is estimated that as many as 900,000 individuals are affected by these each year with estimates suggesting that nearly 60,000–100,000 Americans die of DVT/PE each year. Currently, the preferred treatment for DVT/PE is anticoagulation. However, if there are contraindications to anticoagulation, an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter can be placed. These filters have both therapeutic and prophylactic indications. Therapeutic indications (documented thromboembolic disease) include absolute or relative contraindications to anticoagulation, complication of anticoagulation, failure of anticoagulation, propagation/progression of DVT during therapeutic anticoagulation, PE with residual DVT in patients with further risk of PE, free-floating iliofemoral IVC thrombus, and severe cardiopulmonary disease and DVT. There are also prophylactic indications (no current thromboembolic disease) for these filters. These include severe trauma without documented PE or DVT, closed head injury, spinal cord injury, multiple long bone fractures, and patients deemed at high risk of thromboembolic disease (immobilized or intensive care unit). Interruption of the IVC with filters has long been practiced and is a procedure that can be performed on an outpatient basis. There are known complications of filter placement, which include filter migration within the vena cava and into various organs, as well as filter strut fracture. This case describes a 66-year-old woman who was found to have a filter migration and techniques that were utilized to remove this filter.

Efficacy and safety of pre-operative insertion of inferior vena cava filter in patients undergoing bariatric surgery: a systematic review

Prophylactic placement of inferior vena cava (IVC) filters prior to performing bariatric surgery is an intervention of unclear safety and efficacy with disagreement between current practice guidelines. To better characterize the risk and benefit of IVC filter insertion prior to bariatric surgery based on the current evidence. A systematic review of the literature of patients with prophylactic IVC filter insertion prior to bariatric surgery was performed and 32 studies were identified for inclusion into the review, of which none were randomized controlled trials. Meta-analysis was performed including the high-quality included studies. Seven high quality studies reported thrombotic events in patients undergoing bariatric surgery who had an IVCF and a control group which allowed for meta-analysis. The pooled odds ratio of venous thrombotic events in the IVC filter population versus the group without IVC filters was 1.57 (95%CI 0.89, 2.76). Among high quality studies 5 reported major bleeding with a rate of 0.76% and 6 reported on IVC filter complications with a rate of 0.67%. Overall no significant reduction in the rate of venous thrombosis was found with prophylactic IVC filter insertion. Use of IVC filters for prophylaxis remains a concern given the lack of clear efficacy in this setting and a small but present complication risk.

Comparative outcomes of Inferior Vena Cava filters placed at bedside using digital radiography versus conventional fluoroscopy

Purpose

To retrospectively assess the outcomes of Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filters placed in critically ill patients in the ICU at bedside using digital radiograph (DR) guidance with previous cross-sectional imaging for planning, compared to IVC filters placed by conventional fluoroscopy (CF).

Method and materials

The cohort consisted of 129 IVC filter placements; 48 placed at bedside and 81 placed conventionally from July 2015 to September 2016. Patient demographics, indication, radiation exposures, access site, procedural duration, dwell time, and complications were identified by the EMR. IVC Filter positioning with measurements of tip to renal vein distance and lateral filter tilt were performed when cavograms or post placement CTs were available for review. Statistical analysis was performed using Stata IC 11.2.

Results

Technical success of the procedure was 100% in both groups. Procedural duration was longer at the bedside lasting 14.5 +/- 10.2 versus 6.7 +/- 6.0 ​min (p<0.0001). The bedside DR group had a median radiation exposure of 25 ​mGy (15–35) and the CF group had mean radiation exposure of 256.94 ​mGy +/- 158.6. There was no significant difference in distance of IVC tip to renal vein (p=0.31), mispositioning (p=0.59), degree of filter tilt (p=0.33), or rate of complications (p=0.65) between the two groups.

Conclusion

IVCF placement at the bedside using DR is comparable to CF with no statistical difference in outcomes based on IVCF positioning, degree of lateral tilt or removal issues. It decreased radiation dose, but with overall increased procedural time.

Successful management of infected right iliac pseudoaneurysm caused by penetration of migrated inferior vena cava filter: A case report

BACKGROUND

Indwelling inferior vena cava (IVC) filters might cause various complications, including filter penetration, filter fracture, filter migration, and thrombosis of the IVC. Penetration and migration complications are common, while a caudal migrated double-basket filter with associated infected iliac pseudoaneurysm has seldom been reported.

CASE SUMMARY

We report a 64-year-old female admitted for sudden onset of severe right abdominal pain after IVC filter placement for 3 mo. The patient had a history of failed endovascular IVC filter retrieval. Computed tomography showed that the retrieval hook of the filter penetrated the right common iliac artery and vein, leading to right iliac artery pseudoaneurysm accompanied by right ureteral obstruction with ipsilateral hydronephrosis, and bilateral iliac veins were occluded. Emergency open repair was performed to remove the IVC filter, the right iliac pseudoaneurysm, and the compromised segments of the iliac veins and IVC with right common iliac artery reconstruction. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from the tissue culture. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 12 with anticoagulation therapy and antibiotic therapy after discharge. Six-month follow-up computed tomography revealed that the right common iliac artery was patent, and only mild hydronephrosis was detected.

CONCLUSION

An indwelling IVC filter, even ‘embedded’ within organized thrombus, could still cause life-threatening complications. Open procedures remain the last resort for IVC filters with severe complications.

Comparison of Retrievability and Indwelling Complications of Celect and Denali Infrarenal Vena Cava Filters: A Randomized, Controlled Trial

PURPOSE

To compare the Celect and Denali filters in terms of complex filter retrieval and indwelling complications after a 2-month indwelling time.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this prospective, randomized trial, 153 subjects were assessed for eligibility between May 2016 and July 2018. A total of 136 participants were randomly assigned to receive either Celect (n = 68) or Denali (n = 68) filter placement in the infrarenal inferior vena cava. Tilt angles at placement and retrieval and rates of overall filter retrieval, indwelling complication, and complex retrieval were compared.

RESULTS

Of 136 participants (mean age, 62 ± 12.8 years, 55 male), 24 (17.6%) were lost to follow-up. The mean indwelling time of filter was 60.4 ± 7 days and there was no significant difference in the baseline characteristics between the two groups. Filter retrieval was successful in all participants (112/112, 100%). Significantly higher rates of filter tilt > 15° (n = 8) and strut penetration (n = 14) were found with the Celect filter than with the Denali filter (1 significant tilt and 1 penetration) (P = 0.033 and 0.001, respectively). No filter fractures were observed and there was no significant difference in tip embedment, filter fracture, filter migration, or mean fluoroscopy times. There were 3 cases of complex retrieval (1 for Denali vs. 2 for Celect, P = 0.500), for which the loop-snare technique was used.

CONCLUSION

Denali filters demonstrated significantly lower rates of tilt angle > 15° and strut penetration. However, there was no significant difference in the complex filter retrieval rate between the Celect and Denali filters.

Mediastinal effusion due to pericardiocentesis with cardiac tamponade: a case report

Background

Pericardiocentesis is an effective treatment for cardiac tamponade, but there are risks, including haemorrhagic events, cardiac perforation, pneumothorax, arrhythmia, acute pulmonary oedema and so on. Mediastinal effusion caused by puncture is rarely reported.

Case presentation

A 47-year-old man who had a history of right leg deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary artery embolism with implantation of an inferior vena cava filter presented for inferior vena cava filter removal. Within 30 min after the procedure, he developed chest pain, nausea, vomiting and presyncope with shock. Echocardiography confirmed massive pericardial effusion with evidence of cardiac tamponade. Emergency pericardiocentesis was performed. Confusingly, only 3 mL of bloody pericardial effusion was drained in total, and subsequently, the patient’s symptoms rapidly improved with stable haemodynamics. Repeat echocardiography showed that the pericardial effusion had disappeared. Urgent computed tomography pulmonary angiography demonstrated localized effusion, which was not seen the previous computed tomography results and was noted around the left ventricle in the mediastinal apace. No intervention was performed, given that there was no bleeding tendency or further adverse events related to the mediastinal effusion. The patient was subsequently discharged in a stable condition a few days later, and outpatient follow-up was advised.

Conclusions

Mediastinal effusion is a rare complication of pericardiocentesis. In the case described herein, the most likely cause was pericardial effusion extravasated into the mediastinum through the needle insertion site in the puncture process due to large pressure variations in the intrapericardial space with tamponade, differing from cases of over-anticoagulation reported in the previous literature. Just as our case demonstrates that conservative treatment of an hemodynamic insignificant mediastinal effusion may be appropriate. Echocardiography is useful and effective to minimize complication rates.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12871-021-01385-8.

IVC filter retrieval: a multicenter proposal of two score systems to predict application of complex technique and procedural outcome

PURPOSE

Aim of this study was to identify preprocedural parameters, which may predict the application of a complex IVC filter retrieval technique and estimate the procedural outcome by applying two dedicated score systems.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this retrospective multicenter analysis, data concerning patient, filter and procedure characteristics were retrieved from January 2018 to March 2020. Patients were evaluated according to the retrieval technique (standard vs. complex) and the procedural outcome (success vs. failure). Significant differences among these groups were evaluated, and two score systems were developed to predict the application of a complex retrieval technique and the procedural outcome.

RESULTS

One hundred and sixteen IVC filters were retrieved in 116 patients. In 98 subjects, the filter was retrieved with a standard procedure (Standard group, 84.5% vs. Complex group, 15.5%), while in 106 patients the procedure was successful (Success group, 91.4% vs. Failure group, 8.6%). Statistically significant differences were noted in terms of embedded filter hook, filter apex tilt, angle between filter axis and IVC, caval wall penetration, dwelling time and procedural time. Two score 0-5 points to predict the need for a complex retrieval technique and the procedural outcome were developed, with a prognostic accuracy of 88.8% and 91.4%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Significant differences were appreciable analyzing the sample data comparing both the retrieval technique applied and the procedural outcome. Two predictive scores were developed to assess the need for applying a complex retrieval technique and to estimate the procedural outcome.

Single center experience of inferior vena cava filter retrieval in trauma patients: contrast-enhanced CT-based retrieval within hospital stay

PURPOSE

To assess the safety and retrieval rate of a predischarge inferior vena cava (IVC) filter retrieval strategy based on contrast computed tomography (CT).

METHODS

IVC filter insertion for trauma patients from 2010 to 2018 were reviewed. An active filter retrieval strategy was established in March 2017. The strategy sought early evaluation of venous thromboembolism (VTE) status and filter retrieval before a patient's discharge. The possibility of early IVC filter retrieval was evaluated by a multidisciplinary team based on pre-filter retrieval VTE-CT findings. Overall VTE-CT findings, retrieval rate, indwelling time, and recurrence of venous thromboembolic events were compared before and after the filter retrieval strategy setup.

RESULTS

177 IVC filters were inserted in trauma patients. All patients underwent pre-filter retrieval VTE-CT. VTE-CT findings were as follows: completely resolved VTE, n = 108 (61%); partially improved, n = 58 (33%); no change, n = 8 (5%); aggravated, n = 3 (2%). The overall retrieval rate was 84% with a mean indwelling time of 32 days. In subgroup analyses, 95 (53%) had filter retrieval with the before strategy (BS) setup and 82 (47%) with the after strategy (AS) setup. The retrieval rate was significantly higher in the AS group [81/82 (99%) vs. 68/95 (72%), (p < 0.001)]. No patients had recurrent VTE during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

The active strategy of VTE-CT-based filter retrieval during the hospital stay markedly improved the filter retrieval rate from 72% to 99% without evidence of recurrence of VTE. Hazards of low retrieval rate versus CT-related radiation exposure should be studied in the future.

Structured team-oriented program to follow patients after vena cava filter placement: a step forward in improving quality for filter retrieval

To reduce inferior vena cava filter (IVCF) related complications, retrieval is recommended whenever possible. Nevertheless, IVCF retrieval rates remain lower than expected, likely due to insufficient follow-up after placement. We evaluated the value of a structured program designed to follow patients by the interventional radiology team up to 5 months after IVCF placement. We prospectively enrolled 366 consecutive patients (mean age 64 ± 17 years; 201 men and 165 women) who benefited from IVCF between March 2015 and February 2020. The program consisted of advising the patient and clinicians to consider IVCF retrieval as soon as possible (standard workflow) and systematically planning an additional follow-up visit at 5-month. Clinical and technical eligibility, as well as technical success for retrieval (TSR) were evaluated. At 5-months, 38 (10.4%) patients were lost to follow-up, and 47 (12.8%) had died. Among survivors, the overall retrieval rate was 58%. The retrieval rates were 83% and 97% for the clinically eligible and technically eligible patients for retrieval, respectively. The 5-month visit enabled 89 additional retrievals (47.8%) compared to the standard workflow. No significant difference was seen in TSR before and after 5 months (p = 0.95). Improved patient tracking with a dedicated IVCF program results in an effective process to identify suitable patients for retrieval and drastically improves retrieval rates in eligible patients. Involving interventionalists in the process improved IVCF patient management.

Adherence to the RIGHT statement in Society of Interventional Radiology guidelines

Context

The Reporting Items for Practice Guidelines in Health Care (RIGHT) Statement was developed by a multidisciplinary team of experts to improve reporting quality and transparency in clinical practice guideline development.

Objective

To assess the quality of reporting in clinical practice guidelines put forth by the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) and their adherence to the RIGHT statement checklist.

Methods

In March 2018, using the 22 criteria listed in the RIGHT statement, two researchers independently documented adherence to each item for all eligible guidelines listed by the SIR by reading through each guideline and using the RIGHT statement elaboration and explanation document as a guide to determine if each item was appropriately addressed as listed in the checklist. To qualify for inclusion in this study, each guideline must have met the strict definition for a clinical practice guideline as set forth by the National Institute of Health and the Institute of Medicine, meaning they were informed by a systematic review of evidence and intended to direct patient care and physician decisions. Guidelines were excluded if they were identified as consensus statements, position statements, reporting standards, and training standards or guidelines. After exclusion criteria were applied, the two researchers scored each of the remaining clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) using a prespecified abstraction Google form that reflected the RIGHT statement checklist (22 criteria; 35 items inclusive of subset questions). Each item on the abstraction form consisted of a “yes/no” option; each item on the RIGHT checklist was recorded as “yes” if it was included in the guideline and “no” if it was not. Each checklist item was weighed equally. Partial adherence to checklist items was recorded as “no.” Data were extracted into Microsoft Excel (Microsoft Corporation) for statistical analysis.

Results

The initial search results yielded 129 CPGs in the following areas: 13 of the guidelines were in the field of interventional oncology; 16 in neurovascular disorders; five in nonvascular interventions; four in pediatrics; 25 in peripheral, arterial, and aortic disease; one in cardiac; one in portal and mesenteric vascular disease; 37 in practice development and safety; three in spine and musculoskeletal disorders; 14 in venous disease; five in renal failure/hemodialysis; and five in women’s health. Of the 46 guidelines deemed eligible for evaluation by the RIGHT checklist, 12 of the checklist items showed less than 25% adherence and 13 showed more than 75% adherence. Of 35 individual RIGHT statement checklist items, adherence was found for a mean (SD) of 22.9 items (16.3). The median number of items with adherence was 21 (interquartile range, 7.5–38).

Conclusion

The quality of reporting in interventional radiology guidelines is lacking in several key areas, including whether patient preferences were considered, whether costs and resources were considered, the strength of the recommendations, and the certainty of the body of evidence. Poor adherence to the RIGHT statement checklist in these guidelines reveals many areas for improvement in guideline reporting.

IVC filters - Indications for placement and retrieval trends- experience from a tertiary referral centre in India type of submission- full paper

Objectives

There is wide variation in the practice of IVC filter placement and retrievals. We conducted a retrospective study to identify the trends in placement and retrievals of IVC filters in a tertiary referral centre in India.

Methods

The data of patients obtained from our hospital records, in whom IVC filter was placed between 2010 and 2018, were analysed for demographics, indications for placement of IVC filter, underlying comorbidities, characteristics of the filters as well as the retrieval rates.

Results

IVC filters were placed in 50 patients, and data was retrieved for 31 patients (mean - 51.24 years, 67.74% males). According to ACCP/AHA guidelines, 24 (77.42%) had an absolute indication for IVC filter. All 31 IVC filters were temporary, 23 (74.19%) of which were placed via femoral access. 29(93.55%) patients had infrarenal IVC filter placement. The average tilt at deployment was 3.71°, whereas it was 5.3° at retrieval. There were no periprocedural complications or filter migrations during placement or retrieval. Retrieval was attempted in 11 (35.48%) patients and was successful in 10. The mean indwelling time in this group was 158.55 days (range 55–366 days).

Conclusion

Our study reveals low IVC filter implantation rates which are predominantly for absolute rather than relative indications. Though in sync with the worldwide trend, the poor retrieval rates reflect the urgent need for better patient and physician awareness. Periodic follow up is imperative to improve the IVC filter retrieval rate and to prevent complication rates.

Percutaneous endovenous intervention without vena cava filter for acute proximal deep vein thrombosis secondary to iliac vein compression syndrome: preliminary outcomes

The aim is to report the preliminary outcomes of percutaneous endovenous intervention (PEVI) for acute proximal deep vein thrombosis (DVT) secondary to iliac vein compression syndrome (IVCS) without inferior vena cava filter (IVCF) placement. Acute DVT patients who underwent PEVI without IVCF were analyzed retrospectively. PEVI consisted of catheter-directed thrombolysis, manual aspiration thrombectomy, balloon angioplasty and stenting. CT was used to evaluate the left common iliac vein (LCIV). Sixty-two consecutive patients (17 men and 45 women, mean age, 59.4 ± 15.2 years) were enrolled. The compression percentage of the LCIV ranged from 51.7% to 95.2% (median 83.2%). Iliac DVT was present in 7 patients; iliofemoral, in 30 patients; and iliofemoropopliteal, in 25 patients. Complete technical success and clinical improvement were obtained in all subjects without the occurrence of symptomatic pulmonary embolism (PE). Five patients experienced recurrent thrombosis. The primary patency rates at 12 and 24 months were 93.8% and 91.4%, respectively, which remained stable at 36, 48 and 60 months. The secondary patency rates at 12 and 24 months were 95.7% and 93.3%, respectively, and there was no change at 60 months. Although limited, our preliminary results suggested that PEVI without IVCF placement seemed to be safe and effective for acute proximal DVT secondary to IVCS without inferior vena cava thrombosis or symptomatic PE.

Effect of a dedicated inferior vena cava filter retrieval program on retrieval rates and number of patients lost to follow-up

PURPOSE We aimed to assess the efficacy of a dedicated inferior vena cava (IVC) filter retrieval program on filter retrieval rates and number of patients lost to follow-up. METHODS A dedicated IVC filter retrieval program began in July 2016. This consisted of tracking all patients with retrievable filters placed by interventional radiology (IR). At the time of filter placement, patients were scheduled for a retrieval consult in the IR clinic. Any missed appointments were followed up by a physician assistant. The program was overseen by a single IR physician. To assess this program's efficacy, we reviewed the records of all patients who had retrievable IVC filters placed by IR nine months prior to and nine months after program initiation. Demographics and clinical factors were then collected and compared. A P value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS Prior to the program, 76 patients (31 males, 45 females; mean age, 64.2 years) had retrievable filters placed; 75% were placed due to a contraindication to anticoagulation. From this group, five filters were removed (6.6%), 42 patients were lost to follow-up (55.3%), 22 patients died (29.0%), and seven filters were deemed permanent by a physician after placement (9.2%). All five retrievals were successful and no complications were reported. After program initiation, 106 patients (59 males, 47 females; mean age, 58.8 years) had retrievable filters placed; 75.5% were placed due to a contraindication to anticoagulation. In this group, 30 filters were retrieved (retrieval rate 28.3%), 17 patients were lost to follow-up (16%), 23 patients died (21.7%), 28 filters were deemed permanent by a physician after placement (26.4%), and decisions were still pending in eight patients (7.5%). One patient (3.3%) had a minor complication during filter retrieval. Initiation of a filter retrieval program increased our retrieval rate (6.6% vs. 28.3%; P < 0.001) and reduced the number of patients with filters that were lost to follow-up (55.3% vs. 16%; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Dedicated filter retrieval program is effective in increasing filter retrieval rates and decreasing the number of patients lost to follow-up.

Clinical outcomes of inferior vena cava filter in complicated pulmonary embolism

Background: Previous observational studies suggest that inferior vena cava filter placement in pulmonary embolism patients complicated with congestive heart failure, mechanical ventilation, and shock may have a mortality benefit. We sought to analyze the survival benefits of inferior vena cava filter in pulmonary embolism patients complicated with acute myocardial infarction, acute respiratory failure, shock, or requiring treatment with thrombolytics. Methods: This retrospective observational study used hospital discharge data from the National Inpatient Sample Data (NIS). ICD-9-CM coding was used to identify complicated pulmonary embolism patients (N = 254,465) in NIS from 2002 to 2014, including the subgroups of acute myocardial infarction, acute respiratory failure, shock, and thrombolytics. Inferior vena cava filter recipients were 1:1 propensity score-matched on age, sex, race, deep vein thrombosis, Elixhauser comorbidities, and other pulmonary embolism comorbidities (45 covariates) to non-inferior vena cava filter recipients in complicated pulmonary embolism patients and separately in each subgroup. Clinical outcomes were compared between the inferior vena cava filter group and the non-inferior vena cava filter group. Results: Mortality rate in complicated pulmonary embolism patients with inferior vena cava filter placement was lower (20.9% vs. 33%; NNT = 8.28, 95% confidence interval (CI) 7.91-8.69, E-value = 2.53) and in the subgroups; acute myocardial infarction (17.9% vs. 30.1%; NNT = 8.19, 95% CI 7.52-8.92, E-value = 2.76), acute respiratory failure (19.5% vs. 29.7%; NNT = 9.76, 95% CI 8.67-11.16, E-value = 2.38), shock (30.7% vs. 47.1%; NNT = 6.08, 95% CI 5.73-6.47, E-value = 2.43), and with the use of thrombolytics (7% vs. 12.9 %; NNT 17.1, 95% CI 14.88-20.12, E-value = 3.01) (p < 0.001 for all). Conclusion: Inferior vena cava filter placement in pulmonary embolism complicated with acute myocardial infarction, acute respiratory failure, shock, or requiring thrombolytic therapy was associated with reduced mortality.

Prophylactic inferior vena cava filters for operative pelvic fractures: a twelve year experience

INTRODUCTION

Conflicting evidence exists regarding the role of inferior vena cava filters (IVCFs) in the prevention of pulmonary embolism. The aim of this study was to review an institutional policy of prophylactic IVCF placement in all operative pelvic and acetabular fractures as a means of preventing PE by comparing it to a historical prepolicy period of significantly less aggressive IVCF placement.

METHODS

The trauma registry of a single level 1 trauma center was retrospectively queried for all pelvic or acetabular fractures for the prepolicy and intervention periods as defined as January 2003-December 2008 and January 2009-December 2014, respectively-yielding 231 patients for analysis. The primary and secondary outcomes measured were the incidence of PE and deep vein thrombosis.

RESULTS

The rate of prophylactic IVCF insertion significantly increased during the study period (p < 0.001). The incidence of pulmonary embolism (1.8% vs. 5.1%, p = 0.351) and DVT (19.3% vs. 10.3%, p = 0.231) were not significantly different when comparing the prepolicy and intervention cohorts. In patients with operative fractures, a nonsignificant trend of increasing incidence of DVTs was appreciated in patients with a prophylactic IVCF versus those without prophylactic IVCF (13 vs. 2, p = 0.222).

DISCUSSION

A policy of increased use of prophylactic IVCFs in patients with operative pelvic and acetabular fractures failed to reduce the incidence of PE or DVT. In contrast, several case reports and institutional series have published several risks associated with IVCF placement including failure to retrieve temporary IVCF.

CONCLUSION

The benefit of prophylactic IVCF in this patient population is unclear.

The Clinical Rationale for the Sentry Bioconvertible Inferior Vena Cava Filter for the Prevention of Pulmonary Embolism

The Sentry inferior vena cava (IVC) filter is designed to provide temporary protection against pulmonary embolism (PE) during transient high-risk periods and then to bioconvert after 60 days after implantation. At the time of bioconversion, the device's nitinol arms retract from the filtering position into the caval wall. Subsequently, the stable stent-like nitinol frame is endothelialized. The Sentry bioconvertible IVC filter has been evaluated in a multicenter investigational-device-exemption pivotal trial (NCT01975090) of 129 patients with documented deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or PE, or at temporary risk of developing DVT or PE, and with contraindications to anticoagulation. Successful filter conversion was observed in 95.7% of patients at 6 months (110/115) and 96.4% at 12 months (106/110). Through 12 months, there were no cases of symptomatic PE. The rationale for development of the Sentry bioconvertible device includes the following considerations: (1) the period of highest risk of PE for the vast majority of patients occurs within the first 60 days after an index event, with most of the PEs occurring in the first 30 days; (2) the design of retrievable IVC filters to support their removal after a transitory high-PE-risk period has, in practice, been associated with insecure filter dynamics and time-dependent complications including tilting, fracture, embolization, migration, and IVC perforation; (3) most retrievable IVC filters are placed for temporary protection, but for a variety of reasons they are not removed in any more than half of implanted patients, and when removal is attempted, the procedure is not always successful even with advanced techniques; and (4) analysis of Medicare hospital data suggests that payment for the retrieval procedure does not routinely compensate for expense. The Sentry device is not intended for removal after bioconversion. In initial clinical use, complications have been limited. Long-term results for the Sentry bioconvertible IVC filter are anticipated soon.

Fibroid Expulsion after Uterine Artery Embolization

Uterine artery embolization (UAE) is a ubiquitous procedure, and a broadly recognized alternative to surgical interventions for symptomatic leiomyomata when uterine preservation is desired. Aside from postembolization syndrome (typically considered an expected feature of recovery), the most frequently described complications are temporary or permanent amenorrhea and lingering vaginal discharge. Less frequently described complications include fibroid expulsion (FE), protracted or refractory pain, infection, urinary retention, and access-related injuries. Reported rates of transcervical FE vary in the literature from 3 to 50% but are most often quoted to be around 5 to 15%. Certain features predispose a patient to FE, including size and location of the tumor, with pedunculated submucosal, submucosal, and transmural lesions considered to be "high risk." While the optimal management of FE has not been definitively determined, high rates of nonoperative management of FE are noted in the literature. This article describes a case in which a fibroid was expulsed following UAE, as well as the management of the complication. A literature review and recommendations for the management of FE is also given.

Inferior Vena Cava Compression Caused by a Retroperitoneal Hematoma Following an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Rupture

This report presents the case of a 43-year-old man with inferior vena cava (IVC) compression caused by a retroperitoneal hematoma following an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) rupture. Preoperative computed tomography scans revealed an infrarenal AAA with a retroperitoneal hematoma nearly occluding the IVC. After emergency aortic grafting, IVC thrombosis, deep venous thrombosis (DVT), and pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) arose. Anticoagulation therapy resolved these thrombotic complications. Disappearance of the hematoma and IVC recanalization were confirmed 3 months postoperatively. Although IVC compression caused by a retroperitoneal hematoma is temporary, careful attention should be paid to IVC thrombosis, DVT, and PTE as possible complications.

Filter tilting and retrievability of the Celect and Denali inferior vena cava filters using propensity score-matching analysis

Purpose

To assess the filter tilting and outcomes of the Celect and Denali inferior vena cava (IVC) filters by using a propensity score-matching analysis.

Materials and methods

From January 2009 to November 2017, 181 Celect and 58 Denali filters were inserted in our institution. To assess filter tilt, filter tip abutment or penetration of the IVC wall, and retrieval outcome, independent variables, including age, sex, IVC long diameter, IVC angulation, and proximity of the filter to renal vein insertion, were entered in the propensity model. Comparative analyses were performed before and after propensity score-matching analysis.

Results

Thirty-one patients were enrolled in each group for the final propensity score-matching analysis. The mean filter indwelling time was not significantly different between the groups (26 ± 22 days in Celect and 27 ± 23 days in Denali). After propensity score adjustment, the mean degree of filter tilt was higher in the Celect group (9.5° ± 7.4° vs 5.6° ± 6.7°). Filter tip abutment or penetration of the IVC wall was more common in the Celect group (39% [12/31, abutment: 12, penetration: 0] vs 13% [4/31, abutment: 3, penetration: 1]). The retrieval outcomes were not significantly different before and after propensity score adjustment in both filters.

Conclusion

The Denali IVC filter showed less tilt and low rate of filter tip abutment to the IVC wall after propensity score-matching analysis. The retrieval rate was not significantly different in the short-term filter indwelling setting. More large-scale, long-term follow-up studies are needed to verify these results.

Sentry Bioconvertible Inferior Vena Cava Filter: Study of Stages of Incorporation in an Experimental Ovine Model

The Sentry inferior vena cava (IVC) filter is designed to provide temporary protection from pulmonary embolism (PE) and then bioconvert to become incorporated in the vessel wall, leaving a patent IVC lumen. Objective. To evaluate the performance and stages of incorporation of the Sentry IVC filter in an ovine model. Methods. Twenty-four bioconvertible devices and 1 control retrievable filter were implanted in the infrarenal IVC of 25 sheep, with extensive daily monitoring and intensive imaging. Vessels and devices were analyzed at early (≤98 days, n = 10) and late (180 ± 30 days, n = 14 study devices, 1 control) termination and necropsy time-points. Results. Deployment success was 100% with all devices confirmed in filtering configuration, there were no filter-related complications, and bioconversion was 100% at termination with vessels widely patent. By 98 days for all early-incorporation analysis animals, the stabilizing cylindrical part of the Sentry frame was incorporated in the vessel wall, and the filter arms were retracted. By 180 days for all late-incorporation analysis animals, the filter arms as well as frames were stably incorporated. Conclusions. Through 180 days, there were no filter-related complications, and the study devices were all bioconverted and stably incorporated, leaving all IVCs patent.

Is external compression on the IVC a risk factor for IVC filter abutment? A single center experience of 141 infrarenal celect filter insertions

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Tilt of the IVC filter is the major problem for the filter retrieval rate.

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External compression on the IVC wall can cause filter tilting.

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Identifying external compression factors are necessary before insertion of IVC filter.

Objectives

To investigate risk factors for inferior vena cava (IVC) filter abutment, including external compression on the IVC wall, using venous phase computed tomography (CT).

Methods

One-hundred-forty-one cases of Celect IVC filter insertion between January 2009 and April 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. On pre-procedural CT, IVC diameter and morphological classifications were measured. Filter tilt angle, IVC angle, vertical position, and filter tip abutment to the IVC wall were analyzed on post-procedural CT. IVC compression was examined by pre- and post-procedural CT analysis. Multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to find factors related to IVC filter abutment.

Results

Of 141 IVC filter insertion cases, 52 were classified in the filter tip abutment group and 89 in the non-abutting group. IVC tilt angle (11.7 ± 5.5° vs. 6.4 ± 5.4°), presence of external compression (14/52, 27% vs. 9/89, 9%), and IVC morphology were different between the groups (p < 0.05). In multiple logistic regression analysis, filter-tilt angle over 9.25° and external compression on the IVC were found to be independent predictors of filter abutment (odds ratios: 4.56, 10.18, respectively).

Conclusion

IVC filter tilt, external compression on IVC wall, and IVC morphology were significantly different between the filter tip abutment and non-abutment groups. External compression and filter tilt over 9.25° were risk factors for filter tip abutment in multiple logistic regression analysis. By identifying these factors, we may be able to reduce filter tilting by preventing the filter from being deployed in a dangerous area.

Association of Inferior Vena Cava Filter Placement for Venous Thromboembolic Disease and a Contraindication to Anticoagulation With 30-Day Mortality

IMPORTANCE

Despite the absence of data from randomized clinical trials, professional societies recommend inferior vena cava (IVC) filters for patients with venous thromboembolic disease (VTE) and a contraindication to anticoagulation therapy. Prior observational studies of IVC filters have suggested a mortality benefit associated with IVC filter insertion but have often failed to adjust for immortal time bias, which is the time before IVC filter insertion, during which death can only occur in the control group.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association of IVC filter placement with 30-day mortality after adjustment for immortal time bias.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This comparative effectiveness, retrospective cohort study used a population-based sample of hospitalized patients with VTE and a contraindication to anticoagulation using the State Inpatient Database and the State Emergency Department Database, part of the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, from hospitals in California (January 1, 2005, to December 31, 2011), Florida (January 1, 2005, to December 31, 2013), and New York (January 1, 2005, to December 31, 2012). Data analysis was conducted from September 15, 2015, to March 14, 2018.

EXPOSURE

Inferior vena cava filter placement.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were constructed with IVC filters as a time-dependent variable that adjusts for immortal time bias. The Cox model was further adjusted using the propensity score as an adjustment variable.

RESULTS

Of 126 030 patients with VTE, 61 281 (48.6%) were male and the mean (SD) age was 66.9 (16.6) years. In this cohort, 45 771 (36.3%) were treated with an IVC filter, whereas 80 259 (63.7%) did not receive a filter. In the Cox model with IVC filter status analyzed as a time-dependent variable to account for immortal time bias, IVC filter placement was associated with a significantly increased hazard ratio of 30-day mortality (1.18; 95% CI, 1.13-1.22; P < .001). When the propensity score was included in the Cox model, IVC filter placement remained associated with an increased hazard ratio of 30-day mortality (1.18; 95% CI, 1.13-1.22; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

After adjustment for immortal time bias, IVC filter placement was associated with increased 30-day mortality in patients with VTE and a contraindication to anticoagulation. Randomized clinical trials are needed to determine the efficacy of IVC filter placement in patients with VTE and a contraindication to anticoagulation.

Inferior Vena Cava Filters and Prevention of Recurrent Pulmonary Embolism

Although inferior vena cava (IVC) filters have a clear role in preventing recurrent pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients with venous thromboembolism who cannot be anticoagulated, the role of filters in patients who are candidates for anticoagulation is controversial. With limited and conflicting data, practitioners often have to make an educated patient-specific decision when encountering this scenario. This article reviews the available data on the efficacy and risks associated with adjunctive IVC filter use to prevent recurrent PE.

Development of a predictive model for 6 month survival in patients with venous thromboembolism and solid malignancy requiring IVC filter placement

PURPOSE

Our purpose was to develop a predictive model for short-term survival (i.e. <6 months) following inferior vena cava filter placement in patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE) and solid malignancy.

METHODS

Clinical and laboratory parameters were retrospectively reviewed for patients with solid malignancy who received a filter between January 2009 and December 2011 at a tertiary care cancer center. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards modeling was used to assess variables associated with 6 month survival following filter placement in patients with VTE and solid malignancy. Significant variables were used to generate a predictive model.

RESULTS

397 patients with solid malignancy received a filter during the study period. Three variables were associated with 6 month survival: (1) serum albumin [hazard ratio (HR) 0.496, P < 0.0001], (2) recent or planned surgery (<30 days) (HR 0.409, P < 0.0001), (3) TNM staging (stage 1 or 2 vs. stage 4, HR 0.177, P = 0.0001; stage 3 vs. stage 4, HR 0.367, P = 0.0002). These variables were used to develop a predictive model to estimate 6 month survival with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.815, sensitivity of 0.782, and specificity of 0.715.

CONCLUSIONS

Six month survival in patients with VTE and solid malignancy requiring filter placement can be predicted from three patient variables. Our predictive model could be used to help physicians decide whether a permanent or retrievable filter may be more appropriate as well as to assess the risks and benefits for filter retrieval within the context of survival longevity in patients with cancer.

Patient and hospital characteristics predictive of inferior vena cava filter usage in venous thromboembolism patients: A study from the 2013 to 2014 Nationwide Readmissions Database

To examine the association between patient and hospital characteristics and inferior vena cava filter (IVCF) utilization in patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE).The 2013 to 2014 Nationwide Readmissions Database was used to define a cohort of patients with VTE aged ≥18 after a primary VTE diagnosis. Comorbidities of interest were classified via diagnosis codes and IVCF placement was identified via procedure code. Chi square analysis tested differences between patient and hospital-level characteristics and whether or not IVCFs were placed. A hierarchical logistic regression model estimated the relationship between patient-level factors (demographics, socioeconomic status, comorbidities), hospital-level factors (bed size, teaching status, urbanity) and whether or not IVCFs were placed. Additional models were specified to examine goodness of fit across methodological alternatives.There were 212,395 VTE hospitalizations, with 12.18% (n = 25,877) receiving IVCF placement. There were significant differences between those who did and did not receive IVCF placement; notably, those receiving IVCFs were older (P < .001), had Medicare insurance more than private (P < .001), longer lengths of stay (P < .001), and were in privately owned hospitals (P < .001). IVCF placement remained significantly associated with patient and hospital-level characteristics following multivariate adjustment via hierarchical logistic regression; notably, age >80 (adjusted Odds Ratio [aOR]: 2.53, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.25-2.85), ≥13 comorbid conditions (aOR: 3.85, 95% CI: 3.25-4.27), and privately owned hospitals (aOR: 1.21, 95% CI: 1.08-1.36). Optimal goodness-of-fit was achieved with a combination of random effects and patient-level fixed effects.These findings provide evidence that combinations of patient and hospital-level factors are related to whether patients with VTE receive IVCFs.

Vena Cava Filter Retrieval Rates and Factors Associated With Retrieval in a Large US Cohort

Background

Retrieval of vena cava filters (VCFs) is important for safety as complications increase with longer dwell times. This study assessed VCF retrieval rates and factors associated with retrieval in a national cohort.

Methods and Results

VCFs were identified by procedural codes from an administrative claims database. Patients were identified who had a VCF placement during a hospitalization from a national commercial administrative claims database. Indications for VCF placement were identified as pulmonary embolism with or without deep vein thrombosis, deep vein thrombosis only, or prophylactic. Patient demographic and clinical characteristics were included in proportional hazard regression models to find associations with early (90‐day) and 1‐year VCF retrieval. Initiation of anticoagulation and the correlation between time‐to‐retrieval and time‐to‐initiation of anticoagulation were observed. Of 54 766 patients receiving a VCF, 36.9% had pulmonary embolism, 43.9% had deep vein thrombosis only, and 19.2% had no apparent venous thromboembolism present. Over the 1 year of follow‐up, the cumulative incidence of VCF retrieval was 18.4%. Retrieval increased over time from a low of 14.0% in 2010 up to ≈24% in 2014. In adjusted time‐to‐event models, increasing age, differing regions, and some comorbidities were associated with poorer retrieval rates. Initiation of anticoagulation was poorly correlated with retrieval, with anticoagulation preceding retrieval by a median of 51 days while those without retrieval had a median of 278 days of exposure to anticoagulation.

Conclusions

VCF retrieval increased over the study period but remained suboptimal and was weakly correlated with anticoagulation initiation.

Observation time after outpatient non-arterial interventional procedures: standards, safety, and outcomes

PURPOSE

To evaluate the impact of standardized reduced post-procedure observation time on subsequent healthcare encounters such as emergency department (ED) visits, hospital admissions, and clinic visits.

METHODS

800 consecutive patients undergoing outpatient non-arterial interventional radiologic procedures within the vascular interventional department between 1 June 2013 and 21 July 2014 were included in this IRB-approved, HIPAA-compliant single center observational retrospective study. Electronic medical records were reviewed for subsequent healthcare encounters, such as ED visits, hospital admissions, and clinic visits. An attending interventional radiologist and radiology resident reviewed, in consensus, medical records for relevance of the encounter to the index procedure. Procedure-related encounters were analyzed to determine relationship to length of observation time, using Matlab for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

397 and 403 patients were in the pre- and post-standardization groups, respectively. Median observation time decreased overall from 1.67 h [interquartile range (IQR) 1.17-2.17] to 1.42 h (IQR 1.08-1.92), p < 0.001. There was no significant change in either overall or procedure-related ED visits (16.6% [66/397] and 1.0% [4/397] pre-standardization vs. 20.1% [81/403] and 2.2% [9/403] post-standardization, p = 0.24 and 0.26), hospital admissions (27.7% [110/397] and 4.0% [16/397] prestandardization vs. 28.3% [114/403] and 2.7% [11/403] post-standardization, p = 0.88 and 0.33), or clinic visits (41.3% [164/397] and 1.0% [4/397] pre-standardization vs. 39.5% [159/403] and 2.2% [9/403] post-standardization, p = 0.61 and 0.26).

CONCLUSION

Proposed standardized shortened observation times after outpatient interventional radiologic procedures are safe, without change in either total or procedure-related ED visits, hospital admissions, or clinic visits.

ANMCO Position Paper: long-term follow-up of patients with pulmonary thromboembolism

Venous thromboembolism (VTE), including pulmonary embolism and deep venous thrombosis, is the third most common cause of cardiovascular death. The management of the acute phase of VTE has already been described in several guidelines. However, the management of the follow-up (FU) of these patients has been poorly defined. This consensus document, created by the Italian cardiologists, wants to clarify this issue using the currently available evidence in VTE. Clinical and instrumental data acquired during the acute phase of the disease are the cornerstone for planning the FU. Acquired or congenital thrombophilic disorders could be identified in apparently unprovoked VTE during the FU. In other cases, an occult cancer could be discovered after a VTE. The main targets of the post-acute management are to prevent recurrence of VTE and to identify the patients who can develop a chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. Knowledge of pathophysiology and therapeutic approaches is fundamental to decide the most appropriate long-term treatment. Moreover, prognostic stratification during the FU should be constantly updated on the basis of the new evidence acquired. Currently, the cornerstone of VTE treatment is represented by both the oral and the parenteral anticoagulation. Novel oral anticoagulants should be an interesting alternative in the long-term treatment.

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

Inferior vena cava filter (IVCF) placement appears to be expanding over time despite absence of clear directing evidence.Two populations were studied. The first population included patients who received an IVCF between January 2005 and August 2013 at our community hospital center. Demographic information, indications for placement, and retrieval rate was recorded among other variables. The second population comprised of patients receiving an IVCF from 2005 to 2012 according to the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) using ICD-9CM coding. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the year of admission for comparison, that is, first group from 2005 to 2008 and the second from 2009 to 2012. In addition, we analyzed annual trends in filter placement, acute venothromboembolic events (VTE) and several underlying comorbidities within this population.At our center, 802 IVCFs were placed (55.2% retrievable); 34% for absolute, 61% for relative, and 5% for prophylactic indications. Major bleeding (27.5%), minor self-limited bleeding (13.7%), and fall history (11.2%) were the commonest indications. Periprocedural complication rate was 0.7%, and filter retrieval rate was 7%. The NIS population (811,487 filters) saw a decline in IVCF placement after year 2009, following an initial uptrend (Ptrend < 0.01). IVCF use among patients with neither acute VTE nor bleeding among prior VTE saw a 3-fold absolute reduction from 2005 to 2012 (33,075-11,655; Ptrend < 0.01). Patients from 2009 to 2012 were more likely to be male and had higher rates of acute VTE, thrombolytic use, cancer, bleeding, hypotension, acute cardiorespiratory failure, shock, prior falls, blood product transfusion, hospital mortality including higher Charlson comorbidity scores. The patients were younger, had shorter length of stay, and were less likely to be associated with strokes including hemorrhagic or require ventilator support. Prior falls (adjusted odds ratio-aOR 2.8), thrombolytic use (aOR 1.76), and shock (aOR 1.45) were most predictive of IVCF placement between 2009 and 2012 on regression analysis.Recent trends suggest that a higher proportion of patients receive temporary IVCF, for predominantly relative indications. Nationally, the number of filters being placed is decreasing, especially among those who did not experience acute VTE or bleeding events. Prior falls, thrombolytic therapy, and shock were most predictive of IVCF placement in latter half of the study period.

The Development of Marked Collateral Circulation due to Inferior Vena Cava Filter Occlusion in a Patient with Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension Complicated with Anti-phospholipid Syndrome

A 30-year-old Japanese man was diagnosed with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) with lupus anticoagulants (LAs) in 2003. He underwent pulmonary endarterectomy after the placement of an inferior vena cava filter (IVCF) in 2004, and treatment with warfarin was continued. In 2014, IVCF occlusion and marked collateral circulation were noted during an examination for transient dyspnea; however, his warfarin level was within the therapeutic range for 88.9% of the time from 2003 to 2014. We herein report a rare case of CTEPH and LAs with IVCF occlusion; in such cases, intense treatment may be required.

Predictors of Interventional Treatment Use for Venous Thromboembolism in Cancer Patients

Venous thromboembolic disease is a major cause of morbidity in cancer patients. The Perspective database was used to identify patients with solid tumors and a diagnosis of VTE from 2006 to 2012. We examined use of IVC filters, thrombolysis, and thrombectomy. Among 32,545 patients, 23.1% received an IVC filter, 1.9% thrombolytic therapy, and 0.4% underwent thrombectomy. Use of IVC filters decreased between 2006 and 2012 (23.4% to 21.2%, p = 0.012). Older patients, uninsured patients, Hispanics, and those with more comorbidities were more likely to undergo filter placement while patients at rural hospitals were less likely to receive an IVC filter (p < 0.05 for all).

Inferior vena cava filter insertion through the popliteal vein: enabling the percutaneous endovenous intervention of deep vein thrombosis with a single venous access approach in a single session

PURPOSE

We aimed to evaluate the efficiency of placing an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter through the same popliteal vein access site used for percutaneous endovenous intervention in patients with extensive lower extremity deep vein thrombosis.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 21 patients who underwent IVC filter insertion through the popliteal vein over a three-year period. Patient medical records were reviewed for the location of the deep vein thrombosis, result of filter removal, and total number of endovascular procedures needed for filter insertion and recanalization of the lower extremity venous system. Follow-up lower extremity computed tomography (CT) venography was also reviewed in each patient to assess the degree of filter tilt in the IVC.

RESULTS

All patients had extensive lower extremity deep vein thrombosis involving the iliac vein and/or femoral vein. Seventeen patients showed deep vein thrombosis of the calf veins. In all patients, IVC filter insertion and the recanalization procedure were performed during a single procedure through the single popliteal vein access site. In the 17 patients undergoing follow-up CT, the mean tilt angle of the filter was 7.14°±4.48° in the coronal plane and 8.77°±5.49° in the sagittal plane. Filter retrieval was successful in 16 of 17 patients (94.1%) in whom filter retrieval was attempted.

CONCLUSION

Transpopliteal IVC filter insertion is an efficient technique that results in low rates of significant filter tilt and enables a single session procedure using a single venous access site for filter insertion and percutaneous endovenous intervention.

Effectiveness of Inferior Vena Cava Filters without Anticoagulation Therapy for Prophylaxis of Recurrent Pulmonary Embolism

OBJECTIVE

The optimal treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is anticoagulation therapy. Inferior vena cava filter (IVC) placement is another option for the prevention of pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients with deep vein thrombosis. This is used mostly in patients with a contraindication to anticoagulant therapy. The purpose of the present study was to compare the two options.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of two groups of patients with DVT: patients who received an IVC filter and did not receive anticoagulation due to contraindications; and patients with DVT and similar burden of comorbidity treated with anticoagulation without IVC insertion. To adjust for a potential misbalance in baseline characteristics between the two groups, we performed matching for age, gender, and Charlson's index, which is used to compute the burden of comorbid conditions. The primary outcome was an occurrence of a PE.

RESULTS

We studied 1,742 patients hospitalized with the diagnosis of DVT in our hospital;93 patients from this population received IVC filters. Charlson's score index was significantly higher in the IVC filter group compared with the anticoagulation group. After matching of the groups of patients according to Charlson's score index there were no significant differences in primary outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Inferior vena cava filter without anticoagulation may be an alternative option for prevention of PE in patients with contraindications to anticoagulant therapy.

In vitro evaluation of clot capture efficiency of an absorbable vena cava filter

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine the in vitro clot capture efficiency (CCE) of an investigational absorbable inferior vena cava filter (IVCF) vs the Greenfield IVCF.

METHODS

Investigational absorbable and Greenfield filters were challenged with polyacrylamide clot surrogates ranging from 3 × 5 to 10 × 24 mm (diameter × length) in a flow loop simulating the venous system. Filters were challenged with clots until CCE standard error of 5% or less was achieved under binomial statistics. Pressure gradients across the filters were measured for the largest size clot, enabling calculation of forces on the filter.

RESULTS

The in vitro CCE of the absorbable IVCF was statistically similar to that of the Greenfield filter for all clot sizes apart from the 3 × 10-mm clot, for which there was statistically significant difference between filter CCEs (absorbable filter, 59%; Greenfield filter, 31%; P = .0001). CCE ranged from an average 32% for the 3 × 5-mm clot to 100% for 7 × 10-mm and larger clots for the absorbable IVCF. Pressure gradient across the absorbable filter with 10 × 24-mm clot averaged 0.14 mm Hg, corresponding to a net force on the filter of 2.1 × 10(-3) N, compared with 0.39 mm Hg or 5.8 × 10(-3) N (P < .001) for the Greenfield filter.

CONCLUSIONS

CCE of the absorbable filter was statistically similar to or an improvement on that of the Greenfield stainless steel filter for all clot sizes tested. CCE of the Greenfield filter in this study aligned with data from previous studies. Given the efficacy of the Greenfield filter in attenuating the risk of pulmonary embolism, the current study suggests that the absorbable filter may be a viable candidate for subsequent human testing.

[Acute pulmonary embolism and contraindication of anticoagulation : Bedside implantation of a new temporary vena cava inferior filter]

Pulmonary embolism (PE), mostly caused by deep vein thrombosis, is a life-threatening complication in critically ill patients in the intensive care unit. A potential strategy to prevent PE in patients with contraindication for anticoagulant therapy is the implantation of a vena cava filter (VCF), to provide fast and safe PE protection against ascending thrombi. We report the case of a 56-year-old woman with an intracranial hemorrhage, who developed a PE. Because of acute contraindications for anticoagulant therapy, bedside implantation of a new VCF was performed to overcome the period of absolute contraindications for anticoagulation. After explanation, several thrombi were found on the filter.

Considerations for Imaging the Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) with/without IVC Filters

Deep venous thrombosis (DVT), thrombosis of the inferior vena cava, and pulmonary embolism (PE) constitute a continuum that includes venous thromboembolic (VTE) disease. VTE is the third most common cardiovascular disorder that affects all races, ethnicities, gender, and ages. VTE predominantly affects the elderly population, exponentially increasing in incidence with increasing age. Venous thromboembolism is not only a singular event but a chronic disease and has been found to have a rate of recurrence approaching 40% among all patients after 10 years. Whether symptomatic or asymptomatic, once thromboembolism is suspected, objective methods are required for the accurate and confirmatory presence of a thrombus with imaging as the next step in the diagnostic algorithm. Imaging also allows for the determination of the extent of clot burden, clot propagation, occlusive versus nonocclusive thrombus, acute versus chronic thrombus, or in some cases thrombus recurrence versus thrombophlebitis. Vena caval filter placement is, in some instances, required to prevent a significant subsequent VTE event. Placement of these therapeutic devices paradoxically promotes thrombus formation, and other sequelae may arise from the placement of inferior vena cava filters. In this article, the authors provide an overview of available techniques for imaging the vena cava with or without a filter and discuss advantages and drawbacks for each.

Permanent versus Retrievable Inferior Vena Cava Filters: Rethinking the "One-Filter-for-All" Approach to Mechanical Thromboembolic Prophylaxis

Inferior vena cava (IVC) filtration for thromboembolic protection is not without risks, and there are important differences among commercially available IVC filters. While retrievable filters are approved for permanent implantation, they may be associated with higher device-related complications in the long term when compared with permanent filters. Prospective patient selection in determining which patients might be better served by permanent or retrievable filter devices is central to resource optimization, in addition to improved clinical follow-up and a concerted effort to retrieve filters when no longer needed. This article highlights the differences between permanent and retrievable devices, describes the interplay between these differences and the clinical indications for IVC filtration, advises against a "one-filter-for-all" approach to mechanical thromboembolic prophylaxis, and discusses strategies for optimizing personalized device selection.

Inferior Vena Cava Filter-Related Thrombus/Deep Vein Thrombosis: Data and Management

Recurrent deep venous thrombosis and inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombosis are well-described complications following IVC filter placement. IVC thrombosis ranges in severity of clinical presentation, but can lead to significant morbidity and mortality with incidence rates depending on patient population and type of filter used. Endovascular therapies such as catheter-directed thrombolysis, mechanical thrombectomy, balloon venoplasty, and stenting are safe and effective in restoration of venous patency.

A Critical Review of Available Retrievable Inferior Vena Cava Filters and Future Directions

Inferior vena cava filters have been placed in patients for decades for protection against pulmonary embolism. The widespread use of filters has dramatically increased owing at least in part to the approval of retrievable vena cava filters. Retrievable filters have the potential to protect against pulmonary embolism and then be retrieved once no longer needed to avoid potential long-term complications. There are several retrievable vena cava filters available for use. This article discusses the different filter designs as well as the published data on these available filters. When selecting a filter for use, it is important to consider the potential short-term complications and the filters' window for retrieval. Understanding potential long-term complications is also critical, as these devices are approved for permanent placement and many filters are not retrieved. Finally, this article will address research into new designs that may be the future of vena cava filtration.

Evidence-Based Evaluation of Inferior Vena Cava Filter Complications Based on Filter Type

Many inferior vena cava (IVC) filter types, along with their specific risks and complications, are not recognized. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the various FDA-approved IVC filter types to determine device-specific risks, as a way to help identify patients who may benefit from ongoing follow-up versus prompt filter retrieval. An evidence-based electronic search (FDA Premarket Notification, MEDLINE, FDA MAUDE) was performed to identify all IVC filter types and device-specific complications from 1980 to 2014. Twenty-three IVC filter types (14 retrievable, 9 permanent) were identified. The devices were categorized as follows: conical (n = 14), conical with umbrella (n = 1), conical with cylindrical element (n = 2), biconical with cylindrical element (n = 2), helical (n = 1), spiral (n = 1), and complex (n = 1). Purely conical filters were associated with the highest reported risks of penetration (90-100%). Filters with cylindrical or umbrella elements were associated with the highest reported risk of IVC thrombosis (30-50%). Conical Bard filters were associated with the highest reported risks of fracture (40%). The various FDA-approved IVC filter types were evaluated for device-specific complications based on best current evidence. This information can be used to guide and optimize clinical management in patients with indwelling IVC filters.