[Long-term follow-up of vena cava filters: real-time sonography and the native x-ray image]

In 16 patients with vena cava filters (12 Günther filters, 4 Kimray-Greenfield filters) a follow-up study was performed by ultrasound and abdominal plain film. Ultrasound allows to identify type and location of the filter as well as the entrapment of emboli. Abdominal radiography is useful for exact evaluation of changes in filter position. Combination of sonography and plain films is considered to be most suitable for follow-up studies of caval filters.