Terapeutic challenge: vena cava filter retrieval four years after implantation.

Abstract

Vena cava filters are used to treat deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Despite the extensive literature on these filters, there is still no reliable evidence that they improve clinical results or mortality in patients with deep vein thrombosis. There are also increasing reports of complications from indiscriminate use, with a complication rate of approximately 19%. Complications include penetration into the vein wall, involvement of adjacent organs, fracture, embolization of filter fragments, and deep vein thrombosis. We describe the successful removal of a vena cava filter 4 years after implantation for inferior vena cava thrombosis. The procedure was performed using common endovascular surgery devices.