Open Removal of IVC Filter with Repair of Aortic Dissection

Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters have been widely used for the management of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients who are not candidates for anticoagulation. The IVC filter, however, is not an innocuous alternative. An increase in the use of IVC filters has resulted in greater incidence of complications. Filter leg penetration is a commonly seen complication, but in a small percentage of patients it can result in damage to adjacent structures: duodenum, lumbar spine, and aorta. The authors report the case of a 77-year-old male with a chronic aortoiliac dissection secondary to aortic IVC filter penetration. The patient underwent open filter retrieval and open aortic repair.