[Partial interruption of the inferior vena cava using a Greenfield titanium percutaneous filter. Present indications...

We report a prospective study of 39 patients who presented thromboembolic disease (TED) treated by partial interruption of inferior vena cava (PIIVC) with Greenfield Titanium filter. We observed 2 recurrent pulmonary embolisms, 1 symptomatic deep venous thrombosis and 2 asymptomatic filter thrombosis. With 1 year follow up, the survival probability is of 85%. Concerning the 12 last years evolution in our hospital, we note that the approach of TED diagnosis and treatment by a central, specialised team within the hospital care structure has lead to a reduction in the number of severe cases of TED, and consequently of PIIVC. So the use of percutaneous filters has not lead to an increase in the real rate of PIIVC performed but to a decrease (21% of patients with TED in 1982 vs 8% in 1993).