Retrievable Günther Tulip filter complicated by sepsis and retroperitoneal hemorrhage: Successful management by filter retrieval

Abstract

We encountered complications of septic shock and retroperitoneal hemorrhage which occurred after implantation of a retrievable Günther Tulip filter. A 79-year-old woman was diagnosed as right femoral vein thrombosis, and a retrievable Günther Tulip filter was deployed prior to a total knee replacement surgery. However, the patient developed septicemia due to Citrobacter freundii, followed by thrombocytopenia and retroperitoneal hemorrhage. A large hematoma was formed along the lateral side of the filter struts. We considered that the filter should be removed to control retroperitoneal hemorrhage and prevent secondary infection of the hematoma. Removal of the retrievable filter was effective in managing these complications.