Dilemmas in anticoagulation and use of inferior vena cava filters in venous thromboembolism; a survey of Respiratory Physicians, Haematologists and Medical Oncologists and a review of the literature

Twenty percent of patients with Cancer Associated Thrombosis receive an inferior vena cava filter annually. Insertion is guided by practice guidelines, which do not specify or discuss the use filters in malignancy. Adherence to these guidelines known be variable. We aimed see if there was consistent management venous thromboembolism among Medical Oncologists/Haematologists and Respiratory Physicians, respect setting suspected confirmed Oncologists, Haematologists Physicians were surveyed four theoretical cases. Case 1 concerns a patient who develops pulmonary embolism following spinal surgery. Cases 2 4 explore 3 covers role recurrent thrombosis despite systemic anticoagulation. There 56 responses, 32 (57%) 24 (43%) Haematologists/Oncologists. significantly more likely insert case (p = 0.04) whilst Haematologists/Medical Oncologists 0.03). No significant differences found cases 4. disparities terms type timing Consistency recommendations variable part because are themselves inconsistent. The heterogeneity responses highlights variations management, especially Thrombosis. International Societies should consider addressing specifically Collaboration between interested specialities would assist developing consistent, evidence-based for thromboembolism.