J Trauma Inj.  2025 Sep;38(3):299-306. 10.20408/jti.2025.0054.

Inferior vena cava injuries at a level I trauma center: a case series

• Sridhar R
• Khan AV
• Kumar H
• Hakeem A
• Kumar D
• Anwer M

• KMID: 2572170
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.20408/jti.2025.0054

Abstract

Inferior vena cava (IVC) injuries are rare but deadly. Depending on the mechanism of injury, patient status, and type of injury, intervention may be surgical or endovascular. These injuries typically pose challenges in identification and treatment. During surgical intervention, rapid access and timely control of the bleeding site may be difficult. In this series, we aim to describe various IVC injuries presented at our center, detailing challenges and outcomes in their management. The study aims to characterize the presentation, interventions, and outcomes of IVC injury cases at a level I trauma center over a period of 30 months. In this report, a total of six cases of IVC injury were treated at our center. All patients underwent surgical intervention. Each patient experienced a high-energy trauma mechanism, with three patients sustaining blunt trauma and three sustaining penetrating trauma. Of the six patients, three survived while three died. Mortality was attributed to delayed presentation, complexity of injuries, and technical difficulties. Adherence to Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) protocols, timely diagnosis and resuscitation, and rapid decision-making can reduce mortality associated with IVC injuries. Nonetheless, surgeons must remain cognizant of the inherent challenges and pitfalls in managing these injuries.

Keyword

Inferior vena cava; Focused assessment with sonography for trauma; Acute care surgery; Wounds and injuries; Case reports