Survival Outcomes after Placement of Inferior Vena Cava Filters in Cancer Patients: Insights from a Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Experience

Abstract

Background: Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters serve as a vital intervention when systemic anticoagulation proves ineffective or contraindicated, particularly in the context of cancer patients. This study aimed to provide real-world insights into the outcomes of cancer patients following IVC filter placement. Patients and methods: Cancer patients with IVC filters were retrospectively reviewed. The indications and survival outcomes following IVC filter insertion have been reported. Results: A total of 176 cancer patients with IVC filters were included in the study. The median patient age was 56 years (range: 18–88 years). Solid tumors were the most common primary cancers (n = 125, 71.0%), and the majority (n = 99, 79.2%) had the advanced-stage disease at the time of IVC insertion. The filters were inserted because of contraindications to anticoagulation (n = 99, 56.3%) or the failure of anticoagulation (n = 56, 31.8%). The median survival (range) following filter placement was only 2 (1.45–2.55) months for patients with advanced-stage solid tumors, 5 (0.62–9.38) months for patients with brain tumors, and 44 (8.59–79.41) months for those with early-stage solid tumors, p < 0.001. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that IVC filter placement offers limited benefits to patients with advanced-stage disease. The underlying tumor, stage, and life expectancy are crucial factors in the decision-making process before IVC filter insertion.