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Image Acquisition Method for the Sonographic Assessment of the Inferior Vena Cava
Published on: January 13, 2023
Inferior vena cava filter migration to the right ventricle
Arminder S Jassar1, Saila P Nicotera, Neil Levin
1Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
Journal of Cardiac Surgery
|February 10, 2011
Summary
Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters can migrate to the heart, a rare but serious complication. Surgical removal and tricuspid valve repair were necessary in one case.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Surgery
- Interventional Radiology
Background:
- Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are used for acute proximal deep vein thrombosis when anticoagulation is contraindicated.
- Filter migration is a known, albeit uncommon, complication.
- Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial.
Observation:
- A 52-year-old male presented with syncope, dyspnea, and renal failure 8 months post-IVC filter placement.
- Imaging confirmed IVC filter migration into the right ventricle.
Findings:
- Endovascular retrieval was not feasible due to the filter's position.
- Open surgical extraction of the migrated IVC filter was performed.
- Tricuspid valve repair was also necessary.
Implications:
- IVC filter migration to the heart is a rare, potentially life-threatening event.
- Both endovascular and open surgical techniques can be used for retrieval.
- This case highlights the importance of vigilant monitoring after IVC filter placement.
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