Vena cava filter devices.

Vena cava filters are effective in preventing pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients with deep vein thrombosis or PE who either have contraindications to anticoagulation or have sustained a PE despite adequate anticoagulation. Although vena cava filters are not without complications, clinically significant morbidity and mortality are low. The use of vena cava filters as primary prophylaxis or therapy for deep vein thrombosis and PE should await the results of controlled trials.