Inferior Vena Cava Filter Retrieval: A Retrospective Study from an Indian Tertiary Care Center

Abstract

To evaluate the technical success and safety of inferior vena cava (IVC) filter retrieval over a 54-month period at an Indian tertiary care center and factors associated with retrieval success and failure.

This retrospective single-center study reviewed consecutive patients who underwent retrievable IVC filter placement between November 2020 and July 2025 and presented for retrieval evaluation. Retrieval was attempted when clinically appropriate using standard endovascular techniques, with advanced methods in selected cases. Demographic, procedural, and outcome data were collected, including dwell time, technical success, contraindications, and complications.

During the study period, 416 retrievable IVC filters were deployed, of which 100 patients (24.0%) presented for retrieval evaluation. Retrieval was attempted in 98 patients and succeeded in 93, yielding a technical success rate of 94.9%. The mean dwell time was 194.56 days for successfully retrieved filters and 305 days for failed retrievals (median: 143 vs. 187 days); this difference was not statistically significant (Mann–Whitney U test, p = 0.15). Advanced techniques were required in seven cases, succeeding in two. All failed retrievals involved marked filter tilt and/or chronic embedment. No major peri-procedural complications were noted.

IVC filter retrieval at our center demonstrated a high technical success rate and favorable safety profile, comparable with published international data. Marked filter tilt (>15 degrees) was associated with retrieval difficulty or failure, however longer dwell time was not. These findings and the low presentation rate for filter retrieval highlight the importance of timely retrieval and structured follow-up to improve retrieval rates.