[Vena cava filters in complicated venous thromboembolism. Ten years' experiences at Malmo University Hospital].

All 74 patients treated with vena cava filter insertion during 1991-2000 at Malmö University Hospital were reviewed. Thirty-nine patients (53%) died during follow-up. Indications for permanent filter insertion (n = 63, age 25-89 years, 35 men) were contraindication for or side effects of anticoagulant treatment, or pulmonary embolism during anticoagulant treatment. Temporary vena cava filters (n = 11, age 19-85 years, three men) were inserted during surgery or thrombolysis. No complications occurred during temporary filter insertion. During 33 (1-120) months of follow-up of patients with permanent vena cava filters 37 patients (59%) died, thrombosis of the inferior vena cava occurred in 14 patients (22%), and recurrent pulmonary embolism in five patients (8%). Vena cava filter insertion should be considered as an alternative treatment in a selected group of patients with contraindications to or insufficient effect of anticoagulant treatment.