1. IVC Filters vs.
Anticoagulation Therapy
Laura Redinger, SDSU, NS
Laura Isaacson, SDSU, NS
In cardiac patients, what is the effect of IVC
filter compared with anticoagulant therapy
on patient outcomes?
2. Outline
History
The Problem
Scope
Impact on Health
Impact on Delivery of Care
Cost
Recommendations
3. Basics….
Are IVC filters, with or without anticoagulation medications, more
effective than anticoagulation alone in treatment of DVT?
IVC filter= inferior vena cava filter
Consider indications, risks, benefits
Used for patients with DVTs (or at high risk for) in order to prevent PE
(Billett et al., 2007)
3 groups of patients: Anticoagulants ineffective; Anticoagulants
contraindicated; Prophylaxis following high-risk surgery
(Princewill, 2011)
First introduced in 1973
Temporary (4) and permanent (7) versions available