Given the complex embryogenesis of the inferior vena cava (IVC), anatomic variations are commonly encountered. Duplication of the IVC occurs in up to 2.8% of the population. Though asymptomatic, a duplicated IVC has important clinical implications when attempting caval filtration. We present the case of a 45- year-old male with factor V leiden and protein C deficiency, who required cessation of warfarin anticoagulation in preparation for cervical laminectomy. The patient had a duplicated IVC and required placement of a caval filter in each IVC.
AnneN., PallapthuR., HolmesR.. Inferior vena cava duplication and deep venous thrombosis: case report and review of the literature.Ann Vasc Surg2005; 19: 740–3.
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MartinK.D., KempczinskiR.F., FowlR.J.. Are routine inferior vena cavograms necessary before Greenfield filter placement?Surgery1989; 106: 647–51.
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VoN., WieselerK.W., BurdickT.R.. The use of paired optionally retrievable Gunther Tulip filters in trauma patients with anatomical variants.Semin Intervent Radiol2007; 24: 20–8.
