Venous Thromboembolism in Trauma: The Role of Anticoagulation and Inferior Vena Cava Filters

Abstract

AbstractVenous thromboembolism (VTE) is a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality among patients with severe trauma. Historically, prophylactic inferior vena cava filters (IVCFs) were used in high-risk trauma patients with suspected risk factors for VTE, including prolonged immobilization, and concurrent contraindication to anticoagulation. Mounting data regarding the efficacy of IVCF in this cohort, as well as concerns regarding morbidity of an in situ IVCF, have challenged this practice paradigm. In this review, we discuss the comanagement of VTE and trauma, including anticoagulation and the use of IVCF.