Cost-Effective Method for Bedside Insertion of Vena Caval Filters in Trauma Patients

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.