Inferior Vena Cava Filter Erosion Causing Symptomatic Obstructive Hydronephrosis.

BACKGROUND: Transcaval inferior vena cava (IVC) filter penetration involving the urinary tract is rare, but has been previously reported. We herein present unique management of symptomatic hydronephrosis secondary to erosion of an IVC filter limb into the lumen of the proximal right ureter.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 59-year-old woman presented with abdominal and right flank pain in October 2015 and was found to have right hydronephrosis, apparently secondary to obstruction from erosion of an IVC filter limb into the proximal right ureter. This was effectively managed with percutaneous, endovascular, and endourologic procedures, without the need for a major invasive surgical procedure.

CONCLUSION: Endovascular removal of the IVC filter was performed safely in this case and can be considered when the urinary tract is involved in filter erosion.