Open Removal of Penetrating Inferior Vena Cava Filter with Repair of Secondary Aortic Dissection: Case Report

Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are indicated for the management of venous thromboembolism in patients who are not candidates for anticoagulation, have a contraindication to anticoagulation or who have recurrent thromboembolism despite anticoagulation. As IVC filter usage has increased, there has been a corresponding increase in presentation of filter-related complications. Filter leg penetration is commonly seen although is infrequently associated with complications. But in a small percentage of patients, penetration can result in damage to adjacent structures: duodenum, lumbar spine, and rarely the aorta. We report the case of a 77-year-old man with a chronic aortoiliac dissection secondary to aortic IVC filter penetration who underwent open filter retrieval and aortic repair.