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Indications, management, and complications of temporary inferior vena cava filters

CardioVascular and Interventional Radiology volume 21, pages 464–469 (1998)Cite this article

Abstract

Purpose: We describe the results of a preliminary prospective study using different recently developed temporary and retrievable inferior vena cava (IVC) filters.

Methods: Fifty temporary IVC filters (Günther, Günther Tulip, Anthéor) were inserted in 47 patients when the required period of protection against pulmonary embolism (PE) was estimated to be less than 2 weeks. The indications were documented deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and temporary contraindications for anticoagulation, a high risk for PE, and PE despite DVT prophylaxis.

Results: Filters were removed 1–12 days after placement and nine (18%) had captured thrombi. Complications were one PE during and after removal of a filter, two minor filter migrations, and one IVC thrombosis.

Conclusion: Temporary filters are effective in trapping clots and protecting against PE, and the complication rate does not exceed that of permanent filters. They are an alternative when protection from PE is required temporarily, and should be considered in patients with a normal life expectancy.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Radiology, Klinikum Innenstadt, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Nussbaumstrasse 20, D-80336, Munich, Germany

    Ulrich Linsenmaier, Johannes Rieger, Franz Schenk, Clemens Rock, Eugen Mangel & Klaus Jürgen Pfeifer

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  1. Ulrich Linsenmaier
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  2. Johannes Rieger
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  3. Franz Schenk
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  4. Clemens Rock
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  5. Eugen Mangel
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  6. Klaus Jürgen Pfeifer
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Linsenmaier, U., Rieger, J., Schenk, F. et al. Indications, management, and complications of temporary inferior vena cava filters. Cardiovasc Intervent Radiol 21, 464–469 (1998). https://doi.org/10.1007/s002709900305

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Key words

  • Pulmonary embolism
  • Caval filter, temporary and retrievable