CT evaluation of Kimray-Greenfield filter complications

CT is a simple noninvasive method for evaluating inferior-vena-caval filters. The cross-sectional format offers an advantage over other techniques because the pericaval region is also evaluated. Thirteen patients scanned for localization and suspected complications of the Kimray-Greenfield filter revealed pericaval organ injury, retroperitoneal hematoma, and filter perforation. These events could only be inferred indirectly from other imaging techniques. In addition, CT easily demonstrated the position of the filter within the inferior vena cava and the relation of the filter to the renal veins. CT is a valuable adjunct to radiography, echography, and contrast venography in monitoring patients with Kimray-Greenfield filters.