What type of filter is used specifically for the leg to prevent venous thromboembolism?

The correct answer is the Greenfield Filter. This type of filter is specifically designed to be placed in the inferior vena cava (IVC) to prevent venous thromboembolism (VTE), such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). The Greenfield Filter acts by capturing emboli that may arise from the legs and preventing them from traveling to the lungs or heart, thus reducing the risk of serious complications associated with VTE.

While the inferior vena cava filter is a general term that may refer to various types of filters, including the Greenfield Filter, the specificity of the Greenfield Filter highlights its established use in clinical practice for addressing the concerns related to DVT and PE. Other types of filters mentioned, such as a PICC (peripherally inserted central catheter) filter or dialysis filter, are used for different purposes and do not serve the same function as venous thromboembolism prevention.