ABSTRACT
The use of inferior vena caval (IVC) filters has increased substantially during the past two decades as a result of advances in technology, which have improved the ease of insertion and overall success rates. Coupling ease of insertion with generous reimbursement, the number of caval filters being inserted for other than recognized indications has increased considerably. Since many referring physicians and many physicians who perform filter insertion do not have an interest in managing the primary venous thromboembolism (VTE), IVC filters are frequently chosen as the preferred management option.
