IVC Filters question

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A friend of the family is very concerned about a recent PE they have had; I am trying to educate them on why they should probably get an IVC filter but have some questions that I can't get answered anywhere. When an IVC filter is placed, do pt's still remain on their anticoagulation regimen and the IVC filter is a preventative thing in addition to anticoagulation for those at high risk for DVTs? Thnx for any adivce.

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Specializes in Med Surg, Ortho.

I recently had a pt that had an IVC filter placed because he had end stage liver disease and

a DVT in lower extremity, so due to the ESLD he could not be on anticoagulant therapy.

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Specializes in Cardiac Telemetry, ED.

What makes you think they need an IVC filter?

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Specializes in Critical Care.

Usually an IVC filter will be placed if a person has recurrent clotting problems despite anticoagulation, if they are at increased risk for PE, or they cannot tolerate anticoagulation...

That being said, I agree with Virgo_RN, what makes you think they need an IVC filter? This is usually a last resort, have they had clots in the past or has all else failed?

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

These are questions we just can't answer - every case is different and we can't offer medical advice. Please take this up with the pts providers.

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