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Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters — which potentially are beneficial in the short term — can lead to long-term complications, including IVC thrombosis or perforation. Despite the U.S. FDA's recommendation to remove IVC filters as soon as clinically possible (typically within 3 months of placement), removal rates remain very low. In a retrospective cohort study, Kaiser investigators assessed 125 patients referred to specialized centers that were experienced with complex IVC filter retrievals. Most patients were referred due to prolonged dwell time, IVC perforation, failure of standard retrieval, or filter migration. Routine retrievals were excluded.
Median filter dwell time was nearly 2 years. Complex retrieval was successful in 99% of patient…