Endovascular management of symptomatic gastrointestinal complications associated with retrievable inferior vena cava filters

Abstract

Objective: With the increase in retrievable inferior vena cava (IVC) filter use, a higher than expected reported rate of pericaval tine penetration is observed. Symptomatic gastrointestinal (GI) complications associated with retrievable IVC filters have been documented; however, their management remains controversial. We describe a series of GI complications of retrievable IVC filters, detailing the spectrum of presenting symptoms and multiple treatment options, including the safety of endovascular retrieval.

Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed to describe the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of patients with symptomatic GI complications associated with retrievable IVC filters from 2008 to 2014.

Results: Nine patients had symptomatic GI complications associated with a retrievable IVC filter (two G2 Recovery [Bard Peripheral Vascular, Tempe, Ariz], seven Celect [Cook Medical, Bloomington, Ind]; six women; age range, 17-81 years). All patients had small bowel perforation on computed tomography scan, four confirmed by esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Concomitant aortic and vertebral penetration occurred in seven and five patients, respectively. Patients presented with various abdominal complaints; one patient presented in acute sepsis. Two patients underwent laparotomy without complications. The remaining seven patients had attempted endovascular retrieval, six of which were successful. One patient's IVC filter was unable to be retrieved, and he was managed medically. Of the six patients who had successful endovascular retrieval, all had resolution of their symptoms with no complications, except for transient sepsis in a single patient who was not receiving periprocedural antibiotics. A follow-up computed tomography scan was performed 48 to 72 hours after endovascular retrieval and ruled out duodenal leak in all patients. Long-term follow-up demonstrated continued resolution of GI symptoms without further episodes of deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.

Conclusions: GI complications of retrievable IVC filters are manifested with a wide spectrum of symptoms and frequent concomitant aortic and vertebral penetration. Endovascular retrieval can be safely used as a first-line therapy even in the setting of small bowel and aortic penetration.