Clinical evaluation of inferior vena cava filters in patients with deep vein thrombosis

• Published in: Journal of artificial organs Vol. 5; no. 1; pp. 70 - 73
• Main Authors: Murakami, A., Yokokawa, H., Moriyasu, K.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Tokyo Springer Nature B.V 01.03.2002
• ISSN: 1434-7229; 1619-0904
• DOI: 10.1007/s100470200012

The titanium Greenfield filter (TGF) is widely accepted for its efficacy, high patency, and low complication rate. Between November 1998 and April 2000, six patients underwent placement of titanium Greenfield filters at Tokoro Memorial Hospital. Three patients were at high risk for pulmonary embolism (PE), two were at risk for anticoagulation therapy, and, one had a proven PE. One patient died 9 months after filter insertion from a cerebral hemorrhage. Inability to pass the pelvic vein via the left femoral vein was encountered in one case at the time of placement. Plain abdominal films revealed that filter angulation (off-axis position) was confirmed in four cases. Two cases of filters were well centered in the inferior vena cava (IVC). The mean angulation was 6 ± 2.3 degrees. The plain radiographic appearance of the filter suggested asymmetric distribution of the filter struts in four cases. Four cases were examined by plain abdominal computed tomography (CT), and IVC penetration was recognized in all cases. Clinically relevant recurrent PE, cephalad or caudal migration, changes of filter span, and mechanical fracture of the strut were not recognized after TGF placement. Problems of angulation, penetration of the IVC wall, and asymmetric distribution of the filter struts were observed, but all patients were asymptomatic after filter insertion. In the future, more cases need to be studied for a better evaluation of late complications.[PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]