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Late Greenfield filter vena cava perforation causing a small bowel obstruction: case report
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15212-9986.
Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology
|February 1, 1990
Summary
A vena cava filter prong perforated the vena cava, causing a rare case of small bowel obstruction. This complication highlights potential risks associated with inferior vena cava filters.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Device Complications
Background:
- Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are devices used to prevent pulmonary embolism.
- Complications associated with IVC filters can include filter migration, fracture, and perforation of adjacent structures.
Observation:
- A patient presented with symptoms of functional small bowel obstruction.
- Imaging revealed a prong from an IVC filter had perforated the vena cava.
Findings:
- The perforation led to vascular compromise, resulting in the small bowel obstruction.
- This case illustrates a direct mechanical complication of an IVC filter.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider IVC filter perforation in patients presenting with unexplained bowel obstruction, especially those with a history of filter placement.
- Awareness of this rare complication is crucial for accurate diagnosis and timely intervention.
- Further research into filter design and long-term monitoring may help mitigate such risks.