Iatrogenic Migration of VenaTech LP IVC Filter to Superior Vena Cava Secondary to Guidewire Entrapment

Abstract

Modern inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are generally safe devices for preventing pulmonary embolus, with fewer complications compared to earlier techniques of caval interruption. Despite continuing improvement in filter designs and insertion methods, complications still occur. The IVC filter complications resulting from iatrogenic causes are rare and include but are not limited to misplacement, filter tilting, incomplete deployment, and filter migration. We recently experienced a problem in which the Vena Tech LP filter (B. Braun, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania) migrated to the superior vena cava (SVC) immediately after successful deployment of the filter in the infrarenal venacava. The root cause analysis of this case revealed that the complication was related to blind pullout of the J-tipped guidewire following deployment of the filter in the IVC. This report highlights the potential risks of using a wire while an IVC filter is in place.