[Long-term follow-up of Mobin-Uddin umbrella filter implantation for prevention of pulmonary embolism].

A follow-up of 40 cases of Mobin-Uddin-umbrella implants for prophylaxis of secondary pulmonary embolism is presented. The all-over lethality was 35% (14 patients) including one embolic recurrence. 25 patients could be re-examined 0.2-11.1 years after the implantation, using the patient's history, clinical examination, native X-ray of the umbrella, B-scan of the inferior vena cava, phlebodynamometry of the legs, spirometry, ergometry, manometry of the pulmonary artery pressure. Possible or probable recurrences of embolism were recorded in 15% (5 patients). The umbrella was totally occluded in 48% and partially occluded in 23%. Umbrella-related complications due to faulty insertion were not observed. Patients without additional cardiopulmonary diseases did not show pulmonary hypertension or ventilatory disorders at rest. 86% of the patients suffered from a symptomatical chronic venous insufficiency of one or both legs. Today the Mobin-Uddin-umbrella has been replaced by other percutaneously applicable cava filters. However, their application may also be followed by complications. Therefore the decision to use cava filters of any type should be based on severe selection criteria.