Traumatic Injury and Complete Ligation of the Inferior Vena Cava: A Case Report

Abstract

This case report describes an occurrence of a traumatic injury to the inferior vena cava (IVC) secondary to penetrating trauma. A 37-year-old male patient presented to the emergency department (ED) after sustaining a stab wound to the mid back. The patient was transferred directly to the operating theatre (OT) and underwent an emergency exploratory laparotomy. A through-and-through IVC injury at the level of the entry to the liver bed was identified. Surgical repair was attempted but failed, followed by eventual IVC ligation. The patient was shifted to the intensive care unit postoperatively for damage control resuscitation while the abdomen was temporarily closed. He later required a re-look procedure for definitive treatment, after which he could mobilize without assistance and return home. This case highlights the different surgical approaches to an IVC injury and examines postoperative complications and their management.