[Substitution of inferior vena cava for Gore-Tex ring prosthesis: experimental study]

We conducted an experiment in 10 mini-pigs, using the Goretex prosthesis to replace the inferior vena cava. Venous flow was increased by a distal arterio-venous fistula to reduce the risk of thrombosis. The survival rate at 3 months was 60%. The foregoing results indicate that this replacement procedure should be considered in inferior vena caval replacement which, although rarely, might be warranted in the clinical course of renal adenocarcinoma.