In vivo evaluation of the adjustable temporary venous spring filter and the RF02 temporary filter: comparative study

Area of Science:

• Vascular surgery
• Medical device evaluation
• Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filters

Background:

• Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filters are crucial for preventing pulmonary embolism.
• Evaluating the in vivo performance of novel IVC filters is essential for patient safety.
• Comparing existing and new filter designs aids in clinical decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the in vivo efficacy of the temporary venous spring filter and the RF02 filter.
• To assess clot-trapping ability and caval occlusion rates.
• To evaluate hemodynamic changes associated with filter placement.

Main Methods:

• Ten pigs each received either a spring filter or an RF02 filter in the inferior vena cava.
• Two clots were introduced sequentially to evaluate clot-trapping capacity.
• Clot capture, caval occlusion, blood gases, and venous pressures were measured.

Main Results:

• The spring filter captured 90% of the first and 100% of the second clots.
• The RF02 filter also demonstrated consistent clot capture.
• Caval occlusion occurred less frequently with the spring filter (17%) compared to the RF02 filter (67%).

Conclusions:

• The spring filter is an effective device for clot trapping.
• The spring filter exhibited a lower rate of caval occlusion than the RF02 filter.
• Improvements in filter size and stability are recommended for the spring filter.