Background: To reduce the risk of pulmonary embolism after deep venous thrombosis is very important. For this reason caval vein filter implantations are widespreading procedures. We reported our experiences of caval vein filters that were inserted with absolute and relative indications.

Methods: Between January 2000 and December 2001, we implanted 11 persistent caval vein filter with the relative and absolute indications in our clinic. B. Braun Medical SA LGM 30 D/U persistant caval vein filters were used. All implantations were done in the operating room assisted by conventional angiography and fluoroscopy.

Results: The mean age of the patients were 44.3 years. In two cases congestive heart failure and in one case coronary artery disease were associated the clinical feature. There was no complication during and after operation. All patients were discharged from the hospital within one day by full recovery. Within the shorttime and meantime follow up period there was no recurrence of the pulmonary embolism.

Conclusion: Pulmonary embolism after deep vein thrombosis is a life threatening and co-morbid complication. After beginning the implantations of the persistent caval vein filters in high risk patients, the number of pulmonary embolism and the recurrence of the embolism are decreased. Despite the high risk of complication ratios after implantation (such as caval vein injury, filter sliding, renal vein thrombosis) in experienced clinics the complication ratios are very low. Also due to widespreading indications of caval filters the pulmonary embolism occurence are decreased.

Keywords : Caval vein filter, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism