Rupture of the Inferior Vena Cava Associated with Complete Thrombotic Occlusion after Placement of a Caval Filter

Author: Ken-ichi Imasaka ; Masahiro Oe ; Shin-ichiro Oda
Publication Type:Journal Article
Keywords: deep vein thrombosis; IVC filter; rupture of IVC
From:Japanese Journal of Cardiovascular Surgery 2006;35(4):231-234
CountryJapan
Language:English
Abstract: We reported a case of a 41-year-old woman with a ruptured inferior vena cava (IVC): this was revealed by a swelling in the lower extremities and bursting pain. This condition was diagnosed on laparotomy. The operation involved repair of the IVC tear and thrombectomy. In this patient, a permanent IVC filter had been placed previously due to deep vein thrombosis. The head of the IVC filter had been covered by a fibrous membrane. Entrapment of the thrombus in the IVC filter might have resulted in high venous pressure in the IVC and a subsequent predisposition of the IVC to rupture. The swelling in the legs diminished slowly, and the patient was discharged with oral anticoagulation and elastic stockings. Despite clinical features and computed tomography findings, the physician's awareness of this disease remains the most important factor for early treatment.