Transvenous Caval Interruption with Umbrella Filter

Abstract

For prevention of pulmonary embolism, transvenous interruption of the inferior vena cava by the umbrella filter was performed in 100 patients between July, 1968, and June, 1970. Filter dislodgment and migration did not occur, and there were no late complications. The recurrent embolism rate was 2 per cent, with a single recurrent fatal embolism. The 30-day hospital mortality was 16 per cent, with an additional late-death rate of 19 per cent. No deaths were directly related to the procedure. The mortality figures reflect the seriousness of the underlying pathologic process. Of 10 patients in whom phlebitis developed after filter insertion, seven had had phlebitis previously. Transvenous caval interruption by the umbrella filter thus seems a safe and effective procedure for prevention of pulmonary embolism.