Filter-related, thrombotic occlusion of the inferior vena cava treated with a Gianturco stent

The authors report a case of complete thrombotic occlusion of the inferior vena cava (IVC), which occurred 4 weeks after placement of an IVC filter (TrapEase; Cordis, Miami FL). Initial treatment with suction thrombectomy and thrombolysis was ineffective. Percutaneous removal of the filter was unsuccessful because of the long period of implantation. TrapEase filters (Cordis) are easily collapsible because of their symmetric design and composition (nitinol). An expandable metallic Gianturco Z stent (Cook, Bloomington, IN) was used to exclude the filter from the vessel lumen. In cases of persistent filter-related, thrombotic occlusion of the IVC, in which initial treatment has failed, the use of a Gianturco stent (Cook) to exclude the filter from the vessel lumen is a viable treatment option if the filter has a collapsible design.