Myopericarditis secondary to embolization of fractured inferior vena cava filter limbs.

Vena cava filters are placed for the prevention of pulmonary embolism in the setting of venous thromboembolism, especially when there is a contraindication to anticoagulation or complication secondary to anticoagulation. Here we discuss a rare complication of vena cava filters. We present the first documented case of inferior vena cava filter limb fracture presenting as myopericarditis. Six other cases of embolization of vena cava filter limbs are reviewed and a mechanism for fracture and embolization is proposed.