Günther Tulip filter retrievability multicenter study including CT follow-up: final report

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Interventional Radiology
• Cardiovascular Medicine

Background:

• Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are used to prevent pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
• Temporary IVC filters, like the Günther Tulip, require safe and effective retrieval methods.
• Assessing retrieval outcomes is crucial for patient safety and treatment efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of retrieving the Günther Tulip IVC filter.
• To assess complications associated with Günther Tulip filter retrieval.
• To determine the incidence of recurrent thromboembolic events and vascular damage post-retrieval.

Main Methods:

• A multicenter, prospective, single-arm study involving 41 patients who received 42 Günther Tulip filters.
• Indications for filter placement included prophylaxis, PE, and DVT.
• Follow-up included contrast-enhanced CT, jugular vein ultrasonography, and clinical assessment at 3 months post-retrieval.

Main Results:

• The filter retrieval rate was 57% (23 of 41 patients).
• Technical and clinical success rates for filter retrieval were 100%.
• No acute complications from retrieval were observed; no recurrent PE, DVT, or vascular damage at 3-month follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Retrieval of the Günther Tulip IVC filter is a safe procedure.
• The retrieval process was associated with a high success rate and no significant complications.
• No recurrent thromboembolic events or vascular damage were noted at 3-month follow-up, indicating long-term safety.