[Prevention of pulmonary embolism using a vena cava filter and cava clip]

Surgical prophylaxis of pulmonary embolism by implantation of Vena-cava-filter (Greenfield) or Vena cava clip (Adams de Weese) was performed in 24 patients. The following indications were used: Recurrent pulmonary embolism under adequate anticoagulation, Pulmonary embolism in cases of contraindications to anticoagulation, Floating thrombus occurring late following deep vein thrombosis, After pulmonary embolectomy. In a retrospective study we recognized 0% recurrent pulmonary embolism, a vena cava occlusion rate of 4% and no clinically relevant signs of bilateral venous stasis in the lower limbs.