A comparison between partial and complete ligation of the inferior vena cava for the prevention of recurrent pulmonary embolism.

Interruption of the inferior vena cava is the definitive surgical measure for the control of pulmonary emboli. There is, however, some controversy as to whether the preferred treatment is complete or partial interruption. This report summarizes our experience with 49 patients who underwent partial ligation, using a technique developed in our Department, and 66 patients, who underwent complete ligation of the inferior vena cava. The incidence and severity of sequelae due to venous stasis in the legs were less in the group that underwent partial interruption.