Finding the Balance: Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis during Hematochezia in Crohn’s Disease

Abstract

Introduction: Despite heightened risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in hospitalized patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), pharmacologic prophylaxis remains underutilized, particularly in those presenting with hematochezia. Although placement of retrievable inferior vena cava filters (rIVCF) may be considered in those with contraindications to anticoagulation and VTE risk, current recommendations from clinical guidelines are incongruent, leading to wide variation in practice. Case Presentation: This report highlights a case of rIVCF used in the management of recurrent VTEs in a patient hospitalized for persistent gastrointestinal bleeding. Conclusion: Our case demonstrates the need for a lower threshold for initiating VTE prophylaxis in patients with active IBD, even when hematochezia is the presenting symptom. A small group of patients with recurrent VTE and clear contraindications to anticoagulation may require IVCFs, necessitating close follow-up and monitoring for filter complications.

Keywords

• inflammatory bowel disease
• crohn’s disease
• gastrointestinal bleed