Venous imaging and inferior vena cava filters.

Thromboembolic disease is a major complication in many hospitalized patients. Imaging of deep venous thrombosis is important for making the diagnosis. After establishing the diagnosis, a decision must be made regarding anticoagulation. If the patient can not be anticoagulated, placement of an inferior vena cava filter is indicated. This paper discusses some of the latest information available on a variety of filters. However, a long-term multicenter study is needed to determine the effectiveness and safety of the available filters. A new approach to percutaneous insertion of central venous catheters is also discussed.