Morris E, et al. - Researchers studied the trends in inferior vena cava (IVC) filter placement and retrieval procedures in Medicare beneficiaries over the last two decades. They estimated utilization rates for IVC filter placement and retrieval procedures in Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries, using Physician/Supplier Procedure Summary Master Files from 1994 through 2015. By provider specialty group and site of service, services were stratified. Although prior dramatic growth was evident, a marked decline was reported concerning the utilization of IVC filters in Medicare beneficiaries over the last decade, likely relating to evolving views regarding efficacy and long-term safety. Accompanying this decline, several filter-related market shifts, including increasing placement by radiologists and cardiologists, increasing outpatient placement procedures, and increasing retrieval rates were seen.