Inferior Vena Cava Filter Migration to the Left Internal Iliac Vein

Abstract

Inferior vena cava filter placement is an important method for managing deep venous thrombosis of the lower extremities and has a high risk of pulmonary embolism. Filter migration is rare but potentially fatal. We describe a case of migration of an inferior vena cava filter to the left internal iliac vein. The filter perforated the internal iliac vein, resulting in hemorrhagic shock, and was removed with open surgery. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of migration of an inferior vena cava filter to an internal iliac vein.