Taking the inferior out of inferior vena cava filter follow-up

To the Editor: Follow-up of inferior vena cava (IVC) filters after insertion is a task that is variably successful. This was highlighted by a recent article describing poor removal rates of IVC filters at our institution between 2007 and 2009.1 Since that time, the interventional radiology (IR) department has established a filter database and clinic with the aim of improving IVC filter monitoring and removal. This radiology-driven initiative has been integrated into the standard interventional procedures and has proven extremely effective. Based on the success of this program, we advocate strongly that IVC filter follow-up should be the responsibility of those who provide the insertion service.