Abstract
A retrievable inferior vena cava (IVC) filter is often used for acute pulmonary embolism (PE). Although only the temporary use of IVC filters has been recommended, it has been used as permanent treatment in some cases and has resulted in late complications. A 41-year-old man with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and acute PE underwent implantation with a retrievable IVC filter at a hospital. Then, anticoagulant therapy with warfarin was administered, and no DVT recurrence was noted. One year and six months after IVC filter implantation, a foreign body was found in the duodenum during routine upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. A computed tomographic scan revealed that the strut of the IVC filter penetrated the duodenum. The patient had no gastrointestinal bleeding or abdominal pain; however, life-threatening bleeding could occur. Therefore, the IVC filter was removed surgically. To avoid late complications such as penetration, a temporary retrievable IVC filter should be used.
