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Case Reports
. 2014 Dec 14:9:183.
doi: 10.1186/s13019-014-0183-8.

Migration of a fractured inferior vena cava filter strut to the right ventricle of the heart: a case report

Hani Shennib  1 , Bradley Bowles  2 , Kelli Hickle  3
Affiliations
Case Reports

Migration of a fractured inferior vena cava filter strut to the right ventricle of the heart: a case report

Hani Shennib et al. J Cardiothorac Surg. .

Abstract

A 23 year old woman presented with sudden onset retrosternal chest pain following an attempt to move a heavy object from her vehicle. Multiple fractured struts of an inferior vena cava filter were identified in the distal right and left pulmonary artery branches, and in the free wall of the right ventricle. A small pericardial effusion was noted. Because of the depth of penetration into the right ventricle, it was perceived not to be amenable to endovascular retrieval. Over several days of observation, she continued to have progressive retrosternal and left shoulder pain. She underwent exploratory sternotomy and extraction of a strut that was partially protruding from the right ventricle and abrading the diaphragmatic pericardium. The patient recovered quite well and was discharged on the third postoperative day.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Fractured strut embedded in the right ventricular free wall, protruding into the diaphragm.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Fractured strut migration near duodenal sweep.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Fractured strut retrieved from right ventricular free wall.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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