Inferior vena caval filter strut perforation causing intramural duodenal haematoma

We present a case of intramural duodenal haematoma caused by inferior vena caval (IVC) filter strut perforation requiring innovative open and endovascular retrieval. A 32-year-old woman presents in shock with dull epigastric pain and non-bilious vomiting. She had previously had an IVC filter for deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Computed tomography demonstrated strut perforation into the second part of the duodenum, causing intramural haematoma and duodenal obstruction. Laparotomy facilitated evacuation of the duodenal haematoma, while the IVC filter was retrieved by endovascular means. Causes of duodenal haematoma include blunt trauma, haematologic malignancy, coagulopathy, percutaneous or endoscopic procedures, pancreatic pathology, peptic ulcer disease and aortoenteric fistula. Duodenal haematoma is rare and is usually managed conservatively or by percutaneous drainage. While this patient had a typical presentation, IVC filter strut perforation has not been described in the literature as a cause for duodenal haematoma.