[Interruption of the inferior vena cava by the DIL filter. Experience apropos of 34 cases]

Endocaval filters are often used to prevent pulmonary embolism but they have a number of disadvantages. The DIL filter, made of a memory metal wire, is intended to male up for some of these disadvantages. It acts by modifying the shape of the inferior vena cava, which it filters through its meshed loops. It is inserted percutaneously, causes little trauma, and its release is progressive. However, it requires measuring the caliber of the inferior vena cava. This filter was inserted in thirty-four patients over a period of 13 months. One filter has migrated. No recurrence of pulmonary embolism and no thrombosis of the inferior vena cave occurred.