Inferior Vena Cava Filters in Venous Thromboembolism

Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters have existed as a treatment option for venous thromboembolism for decades. Advances in medical technology have provided clinicians with several options of devices that can be placed on either a permanent or temporary basis. However, there are limited data from randomized, controlled trials on the appropriate use of IVC filters. This chapter will review and summarize the history of IVC filters and the types that are available in clinical practice. It will review the literature on the utilization of IVC filters and discuss the indications that professional societies have endorsed for their use. In addition, it will outline the complications of IVC filter placement and future research directions for this therapy option.