TrapEase inferior vena cava filter placed via the basilic arm vein: a new antecubital access.

The authors' experience with the TrapEase vena cava filter deployed via a peripheral arm vein access in five patients is described. The filter placement, employing a 90-cm-long sheath and a modified coaxial dilator, is described in clinical and technical detail. The filter was placed successfully in five patients without complications. Deployment time is short (average, 25 min) and a peripherally inserted central catheter can be deployed through the same access. These results indicate that this method is technically feasible and fast.