RESUMEN
To define the role of IVC filters in preventing pulmonary embolism [PE]. Between January 2009 and December 2011, twenty patients [6 males and 14 females]] underwent vena cava filter placement. The indications for filter placement were recurrent thromboembolism despite adequate anticoagulation in 18 patients [90%], contra-indication of anticoagulation in 2 patients [10%]. In 2 patients duplex guided method was done as one patient was pregnant and the other had impaired renal functions. Trape-ease nitinol filters were inserted in14 patients [70%], Venatec filters in 4 patients [20%,] and Titanium Greenfield filters in 2 patients [10%,]. Mean age of patients was 42 years. All attempts at filter placement were successful. The deployment sites were the infra-renal inferior vena cava [IVC] in 19 patients and suprarenal in one pregnant patient. Using fluoroscopic and duplex guidance, in order 18 filters and 2 filters were deployed successfully. None of the followed patients developed PE or filler related complications during follow up. Cava filter insertion is safe and effective in preventing PE. Duplex guidance can replace fluoroscopy to guide the procedure in patients whose conditions can not tolerate the contrast material or exposure to x-ray