Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 12, 2026

The Supraclavicular Fossa Ultrasound View for Central Venous Catheter Placement and Catheter Change Over Guidewire
Published on: December 23, 2014
Vena cava filter disruption and central migration due to accidental guidewire manipulation: a case report
K Granke1, F M Abraham, D E McDowell
1Department of Surgery, West Virginia University, Morgantown 26506-9238, USA.
Insights
Vena cava filters prevent pulmonary emboli in stroke and trauma patients. A rare complication occurred when a filter fractured due to guidewire use, migrating to the heart.
Area of Science:
- Medical Devices
- Interventional Cardiology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Vena cava filters are crucial for preventing pulmonary embolism in high-risk patients.
- Acute stroke and trauma patients often receive these filters to mitigate embolic events.
Abstract:
Vena cava filters are now widely used as a safe and effective means of reducing the risk of pulmonary embolus in patients hospitalized with acute stroke or trauma. We report a case of traumatic disruption of vena cava filter resulting from guidewire manipulation with migration of the main structure to the heart after successful initial placement of the filter.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiac Catheterization IV: Nursing Management
Aneurysm IV: Nursing Management
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Hemodialysis I: Introduction

