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[Rate of thrombosis after cava filter implantation. Long-term results]
M E Ammann1, K Eibenberger, F Winkelbauer
1Universitätsklinik für Radiodiagnostik Wien.
Insights
Long-term complications from inferior vena cava filters are rare. Post-thrombotic alterations and caval occlusion occurred infrequently in patients receiving caval filters, suggesting safety for filter implantation.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Interventional Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are used to prevent pulmonary embolism.
- Potential complications include access site thrombosis and IVC occlusion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term safety and complication rates of percutaneously placed IVC filters.
- To assess the incidence of access site thrombosis and IVC occlusion after filter placement.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 30 patients who underwent percutaneous IVC filter placement.
- Follow-up evaluation using color-coded Doppler sonography.
- Assessment of Günther, Bird's Nest, and Simon-Nitinol filter types.
Main Results:
- Low rates of long-term complications were observed.
- One case of post-thrombotic alterations in the internal jugular vein.
- One instance of IVC occlusion 15 months post-Simon-Nitinol filter placement.
Conclusions:
- Percutaneous IVC filter placement has low long-term rates of access site thrombosis and IVC occlusion.
- These complications should not deter consideration for IVC filter implantation when indicated.
Abstract:
Thrombosis of the access site and occlusion of the inferior vena cava after placement of an inferior vena caval filter are known complications of caval interruption. 30 patients were evaluated with colour-coded Doppler sonography 4 to 66 months (average 2.5 years) after percutaneous placement of either a Günther filter, a Bird's Nest filter or a Simon-Nitinol filter. One right internal jugular vein had post-thrombotic alterations. One inferior vena cava was found to be occluded 15 months after Simon-Nitinol filter placement. The long-term occlusion rates of access site and inferior vena cava after percutaneous filter introduction are low. These two factors need not be considered if implantation of a caval filter is contemplated.