[Surgical interruption of the inferior vena cava].

The historical review of the different techniques of inferior vena cava interruption allows to take into consideration the improvement in the treatment and prophylaxis of thromboembolism. On the one hand, technological progresses led to less invasive, often endoluminal surgical procedures. On the other hand, owing to administration of anticoagulant and fibrinolytic drugs, the indications of permanent and temporary vena cava filters become clearer and more precise.