Fatal outcome in atrial migration of the Tempofilter.
OBJECTIVE
To report the risk of fatal atrial migration with the Tempofilter.


METHODS
Among temporary filters, the high safety profile Tempofilter has been marketed as offering protection for up to 6 weeks. We implanted about 60 Tempofilters to prevent pulmonary embolism. The main indications were temporary thromboembolic risk, recurrent pulmonary embolism, and contraindication to or failure of anticoagulant therapy. Follow-up was performed regularly by plain abdominal film and Doppler ultrasound. Filters were removed about 4 weeks after placement.


RESULTS
We encountered three cases (5%) of atrial migration and one case of 5-cm cephalad displacement of the filter. Of the three patients with atrial migration, two died within 3 days of implantation, one from a massive pulmonary embolism and the other with cardiac tamponade. One patient did not show any serious complications.


CONCLUSIONS
The Tempofilter may actively migrate cranially and become dangerous in the case of migration within the heart.
Rossi
P
P
Department of Radiology, III Chair, University of Rome La Sapienza, Policlinico Umberto I, Italy.
Arata
F M
FM
Bonaiuti
P
P
Pedicini
V
V
D000328:Adult; D002305:Cardiac Tamponade / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D005548:Foreign-Body Migration / Q000150:complications* / Q000401:mortality; D006325:Heart Atria; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011655:Pulmonary Embolism / Q000209:etiology*; D016306:Vena Cava Filters / Q000009:adverse effects*