Symptomatic Perforation of a Günther Tulip Inferior Vena Cava Filter With Subsequent Strut Fracture and Pulmonary Embolization

Abstract

Long-dwelling retrievable inferior vena cava filters (IVCFs) are associated with adverse events, including migration, thrombosis, penetration, fracture, and embolization. Despite the safety and efficacy profile of the Gunther Tulip (GT) retrievable IVCF (Cook Medical Inc, Bloomington, IN), long-dwelling GT IVCFs are at risk for migration and penetration [1, 2]. We present a case of symptomatic perforation of a GT IVCF with subsequent pulmonary embolization of a main strut fracture fragment 10 years after placement. These findings further contribute to our understanding of the risks associated with the ‘‘permanent’’ placement of GT retrievable filters.