Complication of stent displacement from the internal jugular vein to the pulmonary artery after jugular vein stenting in the treatment of intracranial hypertension: a case report

Background Internal jugular vein stenting is a treatment for intracranial hypertension caused by internal jugular vein stenosis (IJVS). Stent migration is rare, and the long-term efficacy and safety of this method are uncertain. Case presentation: A patient in their 20s presented with headache, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. Imaging revealed left transverse sinus stenosis, leading to a diagnosis of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). Symptoms initially improved following left transverse sinus stent implantation. However, three months after surgery, the patient developed recurrent headaches. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) revealed restenosis of the left transverse sinus and new stenosis of the right internal jugular vein (IJV). Stenting at both sites significantly relieved intracranial hypertension. However, the patient later developed palpitations and bilateral leg edema. Follow-up angiography confirmed the migration of the right IJV stent into the right pulmonary artery. Conclusion Stent migration should be suspected if palpitations and leg edema occur after placement. In extreme cases, internal jugular vein stenting can lead to stent migration into the pulmonary artery. If the stent exhibits good wall apposition, conservative management with careful observation may be considered.