Retrieval of a Malpositioned Vena Cava Filter with Embolic Protection with Use of a Second Filter

Proper positioning of inferior vena cava (IVC) filters is necessary for effective protection from pulmonary embolism (PE). This report describes a case of an IVC filter malpositioned partially in the right common iliac vein that resulted in risk of recurrent PE caused by thrombus emanating from the left common iliac vein. A new filter was placed in the IVC above the first device, followed by retrieval of the malpositioned filter through the new filter. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2005; 16:531–534 Abbreviations: DVT deep vein thrombosis, IVC inferior vena cava, PE pulmonary embolism DEEP venous thrombosis (DVT) is a common disease that can be compli-cated by pulmonary embolism (PE) (1). Although anticoagulation remains the standard therapy for DVT and PE, the use of inferior vena cava (IVC) filters is an accepted method to trap emboli in the IVC when anticoagulation is contra-indicated and/or has failed (2)