Limb fracture, embolization, and penetration of the heart: a case report of a complication of unretrieved inferior vena cava filters

Inferior vena cava filters are commonly used in patients with venous thromboembolism who cannot tolerate anticoagulation. While retrievable filters are preferred, many remain in place long-term, increasing the risk of complications such as filter strut fracture and embolization. We present a case of a 47-year-old female with an incidentally discovered intracardiac filter strut fragment, 16 years post-implantation. Minimally invasive surgical removal was performed, while an additional embolized fragment in the pulmonary artery was managed conservatively. This case underscores the importance of timely filter retrieval to prevent complications and highlights management considerations for embolized struts.