Objective:To study the feasibility of localization of renal veins by guide wire and its value in guiding IVCF placement.
Methods :In 35 adult patients with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) who required inferior vena cava filter (IVCF) placement, the renal veins were identified by guide wire, and then iodinated contrast cavography was done to determine the anatomy of the renal veins.The safety and accuracy of locailzation of renal veins by guide wire and iodinated contrast cavography prior to IVCF placement were compared.
Results:Guide wire successfullly entered the renal veins, and was verified by positive-contrast vena cavography. IVCF was accurately and safely inserted in the right position guided by the wire in renal veins. The tip of filter which was placed by guiding of guide wire in renal veins, and IVCF laid in inferior vena cava at 0~10 mm below lower margin of renal vein, as verified by positive-contrast vena cavography. Twenty-three IVCFs were removed successfully two weeks later.
Conclusions:In patients with contraindications to iodinated contrast material or ionizing radiation, localization of renal veins by guide wire is a safe and effective alternative to conventional positive-contrast vena cavography for guiding IVCF placement.