Endovascular Retrieval of Inferior Vena Cava Filter Penetrating Into Aorta: An Unusual Presentation of Abdominal Pain

Abstract

Inferior vena cava filters are commonly used in patients with contraindications to or failures of treatment with anticoagulation. However, these are not without complications. Serious complications include penetration of the filter struts into adjacent structures, including the aorta. The design of permanent filters makes retrieval in the instance of life-threatening complication complex, often requiring extensive surgical exploration. Retrievable filters may be more easily removed via endovascular methods, reducing the morbidity of surgical approaches.