AN UNUSUAL CAUSE OF UPPER GASTROINTESTINAL HEMORRHAGE - PERFORATION OF A VENA-CAVA FILTER INTO THE DUODENUM

Penetration of vena cava inferior filter spikes through the vessel wal l is a frequent but only rarely symptomatic complication of these devi ces. We report a case of upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage II years a fter implantation of a Mobin-Uddin filter: At gastroduodenos-copy a fi lter spike protruding from the duodenal mucosa was identified as the c ause of the haemorrhage. After removal of the filter the patient made an uneventful recovery. Indications for vena cava filter placement are discussed in the light of their early and late complications. Surgica l intervention is strongly recommended for symptomatic perforations.