Total laparoscopic retrieval of a cava filter: case series

Despite the fact that prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolic complications are based on anticoagulant therapy in cases where there are contraindications, complications, as well as in case of inefficiency of the carried out anticoagulant therapy, installation of a cava filter is indicated. The necessity of subsequent retrieval of this device from the inferior vena cava is associated with a potential risk of the development of complications. Analysed herein is a case series concerning management of 4 patients undergoing treatment from February 2015 to March 2017. Attempts of endovascular retrieval of the cava filter turned out unsuccessful. The patients were therefore subjected to total laparoscopic retrieval of the cava filter. The time required for phlebotomy, retrieval of the filter, and suturing of the phlebectomy zone ranged from 32 to 45 min. The maximal blood loss amounted to 300 ml, not requiring transfusion of blood preparations. Neither was required conversion to laparotomy in any case. No significant systemic or wound complications in the postoperative period were observed. A conclusion drawn is that in case of failed attempts at endovascular retrieval, given that a surgical team has broad experience in performing laparoscopic and angiosurgical operations, total laparoscopic retrieval of a cava filter may be considered a relatively safe minimally invasive method of managing the patient cohort concerned.