Inferior vena cava filter

Case contributed by Omar Bashir
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Patient with DVT due to undergo abdominal surgery

Patient Data

Age: 35 years
Gender: Female
dsa

A-C. Contrast injection is performed through a 5Fr graduated pigtail catheter in the right common iliac vein. The IVC is patent and of appropriate caliber for the chosen IVC filter (COOK-CELECT). The black arrows contrast reflux into the renal veins. The  white arrow indicates the flow void from the left common iliac vein.

dsa

A. The IVC filter has been deployed. The black arrow indicates the filter delivery sheath.

B. Contrast injection through the filter delivery sheath demonstrates satisfactory infrarenal position of the IVC filter. Note contrast reflux in the right renal vein (red arrow).

Case Discussion

Vena cava (IVC) filter is a mechanical device, most often deployed in the infrarenal IVC, designed to trap emboli. It is used in selected cases of venous thromboembolism, as a prophylactic measure against pulmonary embolism. The IVC filters are commonly deployed using venous access from either the internal jugular or femoral veins.

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