Surgical removal of an inferior vena cava filter in the duodenum: A rare case report and literature review

Abstract

Background: Inferior vena cava filters are typically retrieved using endovascular procedures. However, in cases where complications related to the filter arise or when endovascular retrieval becomes challenging, open surgery could be considered. Case presentation: A 65-year-old woman underwent inferior vena cava filter placement surgery for progressive venous thrombosis embolism (VTE). Following an unsuccessful endovascular retrieval attempt at an external hospital two months later, she experienced abdominal pain and was transferred to our facility for further treatment. Examination revealed that she was encountered a complication where the inferior vena cava filter penetrated both the vena cava and the duodenum post-implantation. But fortunately, the patient's blood test results were within normal range. Ultimately, our institution successfully removed the filter through open surgery and the patient was discharged without any complications. Conclusions: This case, along with our literature review, illustrates the viability and safety of duodenal-penetrated filter removal via open surgery, resulting in favorable outcomes and a promising prognosis for the patient.

Keywords

• IVC filter retrieval
• Open surgery
• IVC filter
• IVC filter complication
• Duodenal penetration