A complication following Kimray-Greenfield filter insertion.

The Kimray-Greenfield inferior vena cava filter, which is used to prevent pulmonary embolization from the pelvis and lower extremities, has a high patency rate and a low complication rate. In one patient, however, thrombus formation at the apex of the filter during introduction resulted in the filter's failure to open completely so that the entire width of the cava in the transverse diameter was not occluded. This potential complication may be avoided by keeping the introduction time to a minimum and by constantly infusing a heparin solution through the side port of the insertion device while it is in the vena cava.