First-in-Human Study with Eight Patients Using an Absorbable Vena Cava Filter for the Prevention of Pulmonary Embolism.

Purpose: To prospectively evaluate the initial human experience with an absorbable vena cava filter designed for transient protection from pulmonary embolism (PE).

Materials And Methods: This was a prospective, single-arm, first-in-human study of 8 patients with elevated risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Seven absorbable IVC filters (made of polydioxanone that breaks down into HO and CO in 6 mo) were placed prophylactically before orthopedic (n = 5) and gynecologic (n = 2) surgeries, and 1 was placed in a case of deep vein thrombosis.