3:54 PM Abstract No. 279 Prospective use of diagnostic imaging to increase inferior vena cava filter awareness in an underserved urban population

Abstract

We aimed to determine whether prospective reporting on diagnostic imaging could be used as an effective tool to raise awareness of IVC filters in an urban underserved community. IRB approval was obtained for this prospective study. From October 2018- July 2019, diagnostic radiologists at our urban medical center flagged all imaging studies in which an IVC filter was identified. Study personnel subsequently contacted the patient via phone and conducted a survey. If patients were unable to be reached via phone on 3 occasions, they were deemed lost to follow-up. Key data points extracted from the survey included patient’s knowledge/awareness of IVC filter presence, date and location of placement, understanding of need for permanent versus temporary filtration, patient’s satisfaction regarding the pre and post procedure education they received and plans for filter removal. Patients were also asked if they would like to be seen in consultation by a physician to obtain more information on their IVC filter. Patients were scheduled in clinic with interventional radiology. 77 patients were identified on diagnostic imaging with an IVC filter. 34 patients (15 males, 19 females), mean age 56, consented for the study. 7 patients declined, and 36 patients were lost to follow-up. Of the 34 patients that consented to the study 7/34 (20.6%) were not aware they had an IVC filter. An additional 16/34 (40.1%) were aware of their IVC filter but not satisfied with the pre and postprocedural information they were provided during IVC filter placement. 29/34 (85%) wished to consult a physician regarding their IVC filter. During the study period, 11 (32%) patients proceeded to consultation of which 8 filters were deemed no longer medically necessary after physician consult. 4 filters were removed (Filter dwell time 6 months- 19 years), and 4 are pending removal. In underserved urban communities, patients with indwelling IVC filters may not be aware they have one or may not have received appropriate follow-up instructions regarding filter retrieval. Diagnostic imaging may be an effective tool to identify these patients, raise awareness, and improve retrieval of filters no longer needed.