2029 Perforated IVC Filter Leading to Duodenocaval Fistula and Massive Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filters are primarily indicated for patients with a history of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) who have contraindications to anticoagulation. In most patients, the indication for placement of a filter is temporary. Although filter penetration of the IVC wall has been reported to range from 9% to 24% for all IVC filters, symptomatic perforation is rare and is reported to occur in about 0.4%-0.8% of cases. We are presenting a rare case of duodenocaval fistula presenting as massive gastrointestinal bleeding. CASE DESCRIPTION/METHODS: A 39-year-old male with a history of motor vehicle accident 10 years ago resulting in paraplegia and multiple lower extremity DVTs which required the placement of an IVC filter at that time was admitted to the hospital with one day of nausea, vomiting and hematochezia. History was very concerning for high volume bright red bleeding per rectum with associated non-bilious vomiting and dizziness. On arrival, he was hypotensive with a blood pressure of 60/40 mmHg, physical examination significant for actively oozing bright red blood per rectum. Labwork was remarkable for a Hemoglobin of 7.0 mg/dL and a BUN of 35 mg/dL. A CT scan of abdomen/pelvis with contrast revealed an IVC filter strut travelling through the IVC wall and perforating to the adjacent small bowel with active extravasation of the IV contrast to the small bowel, suggestive of a fistulous communication between IVC and a perforated loop of bowel. The patient was emergently taken to the operating room for exploratory laparotomy. IVC filter strut was found to be eroding through the IVC and into the duodenum confirming the CT findings. Transverse venotomy was performed and the filter was removed. An area of small bowel serosal tear was incorporated into the enterectomy segment, and end to end small bowel anastomosis was performed. IVC was repaired, and hemostasis was secured. Post-operatively, patient stayed stable clinically and hemodynamically with cessation of hematochezia. DISCUSSION: Duodenocaval fistula is a very rare complication of IVC filter placement, with around 10 reported cases in the literature. Even though it is rare, our case highlights the importance of a thorough and timely sensitive workup for an unstable patient with gastrointestinal bleeding and history of an IVC filter placement to rule out IVC penetration into surrounding viscera, since this can lead to significant morbidity and mortality if not recognized early during the clinical course.