Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are implantable devices created to trap thrombi from the lower extremities and prevent clinically significant pulmonary embolism (PE). According to guidelines, the most widely accepted indication for insertion of an IVC filter is the prevention of PE in a patient with acute venous thromboembolism (VTE) and an absolute contraindication to anticoagulation [1-4]. Other potential indications such as acute PE in patients with poor cardiopulmonary reserve and high-risk PE treated with thrombolysis or thrombectomy are controversial [1,2].
