Double-filter technique for deployment of a permanent inferior vena cava filter while avoiding the risk of pulmonary embolism from a thrombus trapped by a temporary filter.

Because temporary caval filters have not been associated with any long-term complications, their use seems practical as long as indications are accurately assessed. However, problems about further dealing with the emboli trapped in a temporary filter remain. This case report describes a new approach to managing a thrombus captured by a temporary filter during the exchange for a permanent filter. We applied the Anthéor temporary filter (Boston Scientific, Natick, MA, USA) as the device for thrombus capturing, then successfully placed the permanent filter with no clinical evidence of pulmonary embolism. Intravascular ultrasound was also useful for monitoring the entire procedure.