INDICATIONS, MANAGEMENT, AND COMPLICATIONS OF TEMPORARY INFERIOR VENA-CAVA FILTERS

Purpose: We describe the results of a preliminary prospective study us ing different recently developed temporary and retrievable inferior ve na cava (IVC) filters. Methods: Fifty temporary IVC filters (Gunther, Gunther Tulip, Antheor) 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 throm bosis (DVT) and temporary contraindications for anticoagulation, a hig h risk for PE, and PE despite DVT prophylaxis. Results: Filters were r emoved 1-12 days after placement and nine (18%) had captured thrombi. Complications were one PE during and after removal of a filter, two mi nor filter migrations, and one IVC thrombosis. Conclusion: Temporary f ilters 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, an d should be considered in patients with a normal life expectancy.