Cost-effective method for bedside insertion of vena caval filters in trauma patients

J Trauma. 1997 Nov;43(5):752-8. doi: 10.1097/00005373-199711000-00004.

Abstract

Background: The need for patient transport for inferior vena cava (IVC) filter placement impacts patient safety, comfort, charges, and nursing care. Bedside, ultrasound-guided IVC filter placement may offer an acceptable, cost-effective alternative.

Methods: Prospective cohort study of 55 consecutive trauma patients requiring IVC filter placement. During a 13-month period (August of 1995-September of 1996), patients meeting criteria for IVC filter were evaluated. Complications were recorded, and the potential financial savings were determined.

Results: Of 3,172 trauma admissions, 55 patients met IVC filter criteria and 49 patients had IVC filters placed under ultrasound guidance. In six patients (10.9%), ultrasound guided filter placement failed. There were four complications in four patients (8.2%). Over 13 months, charges were reduced by $69,800 when compared with radiology suite placement and $118,300 when compared with operative placement.

Conclusions: Ultrasound guided, bedside placement of IVC filters is a safe, cost-effective method of pulmonary embolism prophylaxis in select trauma patients.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis
  • Humans
  • Injury Severity Score
  • Male
  • Methods
  • Middle Aged
  • Point-of-Care Systems*
  • Prospective Studies
  • Pulmonary Embolism / etiology
  • Pulmonary Embolism / prevention & control*
  • Ultrasonography / economics
  • Vena Cava Filters / economics*
  • Wounds and Injuries / complications
  • Wounds and Injuries / economics*
  • Wounds and Injuries / therapy