9:04 AM Abstract No. 183 - The development of a dedicated IVC filter clinic results in higher rate of filter retrieval, but does not significantly result in higher success of filter removal or improvement of post filter removal complications

Abstract

Purpose To demonstrate that a dedicated clinic to monitor the placement of inferior vena cava (IVC) filters increases the retrieval rate of IVC filters; however, does not provide significant improvement of post filter removal complications including recurrent venous thromboembolic disease requiring repeat caval filtration placement. Materials and Methods The author’s institution developed a dedicated IVC filter clinic in October 2011, which was responsible for following patient’s with IVC filters placed, so that they may be evaluated for eventual IVC filter removal and post-procedural complications. Retrospective analysis was performed to compare rate of filter retrieval and post filter removal complications in a 6 month period after the clinic was formed between March 2012-August 2012, versus a 6 month period prior to having a dedicated clinic from March 2011-August 2011. Patients were separated into pre IVC filter clinic group (with a median age of 59), and post IVC filter clinic group (with a median age of 58). A comparison between the rate of filters placed to retrieved was evaluated between these two time periods utilizing the Fischer exact test. Additionally, evaluation of post-procedural complications was performed to assess for post removal complications and recurrent thromboembolic disease in both preclinic and postclinic groups. Results In comparison for placement of optional filters for these two groups, it was noted that the preclinic placement was 49 and postclinic was 39. Despite the decrease in filter placement, the rate of retrieval increased from 7 (14.3%) vs 16 (41.0%) respectively. Utilizing the Fischer exact test, this was noted to be statistically significant. (p value = 0.0368). Additionally, 100% of filters evaluated in our clinic were removed successfully without post procedure complications, as well there is no recurrent thromboembolic disease involving both groups Conclusion Having a dedicated IVC filter clinic results in a significant increase in IVC filter retrieval rate; however, does not significantly change success in filter retrieval or post removal complications.