Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis for Massive Pulmonary Embolism Resulting from Thrombosis in a Duplicated Inferior Vena Cava: A Case Report

Ann Vasc Surg. 2016 May:33:231.e1-4. doi: 10.1016/j.avsg.2015.11.032. Epub 2016 Mar 8.

Abstract

Pulmonary embolism (PE) associated with duplicated inferior vena cava (IVC) is rare, and there are no reports of this condition treated with catheter-directed thrombolysis. We present the case of a 54-year-old man who developed massive PE caused by thrombi in a duplicated IVC that detached during transcatheter angiography. After implantation of a retrievable filter in the common IVC, the patient underwent catheter-directed thrombolysis. He was asymptomatic at discharge, with complete resolution of thrombosis and successful retrieval of the filter. The patient had an uneventful 9-month follow-up with no further complications.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Angiography, Digital Subtraction
  • Catheterization, Central Venous* / instrumentation
  • Catheters
  • Device Removal
  • Fibrinolytic Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Humans
  • Infusions, Intravenous
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Phlebography / methods
  • Pulmonary Embolism / diagnostic imaging
  • Pulmonary Embolism / drug therapy*
  • Pulmonary Embolism / etiology*
  • Thrombolytic Therapy / instrumentation
  • Thrombolytic Therapy / methods*
  • Time Factors
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator / administration & dosage*
  • Vascular Malformations / complications*
  • Vascular Malformations / diagnostic imaging
  • Vena Cava Filters
  • Vena Cava, Inferior / abnormalities*
  • Vena Cava, Inferior / diagnostic imaging
  • Venous Thrombosis / complications
  • Venous Thrombosis / diagnostic imaging
  • Venous Thrombosis / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Fibrinolytic Agents
  • Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator