Retrieval stent filter: treatment of Budd Chiari syndrome complicated with inferior vena cava thrombosis--initial clinical experience.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the initial clinical efficacy of a retrieval stent filter for the management of Budd Chiari syndrome complicated with inferior vena cava thrombosis.

DESCRIPTION: The retrieval stent filter consists of two parts (ie, the filter and the Z-stent). The filter was composed of seven legs arranged in the shape of a cone with a retrieval hook at its apex. The filter and the Z-stent were connected with each other, and the retrieval of the stent filter was performed with an Amplatz gooseneck snare (MicroVena [White Bear Lake, MN]). Eight consecutive patients were treated with the stent filters.

EVALUATION: The stent filter placement was technically successful in all patients. Inferior vena cavography demonstrated that all of the inferior vena cavae were patent without incidental pulmonary embolism after deploying the stent filter. A 3-11 months follow-up study showed that all of the stent filters were removed after approximately 5 to 24 days of placement. All patients were still alive with resolution of the symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a retrieval stent filter proved to be expedient, safe, and effective in the treatment of Budd Chiari syndrome complicated with inferior vena cava thrombosis.