What is a primary purpose of performing a venogram when an IVC filter is planned?

What is a primary purpose of performing a venogram when an IVC filter is planned?

• A. Visualize the renal venous inflow tract
• B. Assess coronary arteries
• C. Evaluate hepatic artery flow
• D. Assess lung perfusion

Answer: (A)

The main idea is to map the venous drainage to guide safe and effective filter placement. A venogram directly opacifies the IVC, iliac veins, and crucially shows where the renal veins enter the IVC. Visualizing the renal venous inflow helps determine the correct filter level—typically below the renal veins—to ensure the filter can trap emboli without obstructing renal outflow. It also checks for venous occlusions, stenosis, or anatomic variants that could affect placement. Other options focus on arterial systems or lung perfusion, which aren’t relevant to planning an IVC filter.

The main idea is to map the venous drainage to guide safe and effective filter placement. A venogram directly opacifies the IVC, iliac veins, and crucially shows where the renal veins enter the IVC. Visualizing the renal venous inflow helps determine the correct filter level—typically below the renal veins—to ensure the filter can trap emboli without obstructing renal outflow. It also checks for venous occlusions, stenosis, or anatomic variants that could affect placement.

Other options focus on arterial systems or lung perfusion, which aren’t relevant to planning an IVC filter.