Günther vena caval filter: results of long-term follow-up.
A Günther vena caval filter was implanted in the inferior vena cava in 59 patients to prevent pulmonary embolism. This newly available device, which can be inserted percutaneously via a 10-French introduction system, has three filtering planes. No complications occurred at the puncture site. Follow-up included clinical examinations (54 patients), plain radiographs (50 patients), and CT scans (41 patients); these examinations were performed up to 21 months after implantation. Caudal migration of the filter occurred in 35 (70%) of the 50 patients who had radiographs, but no cranial or oblique movement occurred. Occlusion of the filter was noted in three (7%) of 41 patients who had CT examinations. Thromboemboli were seen inside the filter in 16 (39%) of the 41 patients who had CT scans. Recurrent pulmonary embolism was not observed after filter implantation. The Günther vena caval filter seems to be a satisfactory device for preventing pulmonary embolism.
Fobbe
F
F
Freie Universität Berlin, Klinikum, Steglitz, W. Germany.
Dietzel
M
M
Korth
R
R
Felsenberg
D
D
Bender
S
S
Hamed
M
M
Laass
C
C
Sörensen
R
R
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D005374:Filtration / Q000295:instrumentation*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011655:Pulmonary Embolism / Q000517:prevention & control*; D013997:Time Factors; D014682:Vena Cava, Inferior