Upper limb phlegmasia cerulea dolens treated with single-session suction thrombectomy: a case report

Phlegmasia Cerulea Dolens, a Deadly Complication of Deep Vein Thrombosis: Case Report and Review of Literature

Phlegmasia cerulea dolens (PCD) is a rare limb and life-threatening condition caused by extensive deep vein thrombosis of the extremities, and it is classically associated with extensive oedema, severe pain, and skin mottling, which may lead to compartment syndrome, venous gangrene, and even death. A 40-year-old male, with a background history of right femoral vein thrombosis, cardiomyopathy, with an ejection fraction of only 10%, presented with three days history of progressive swelling, pain, and discolouration of the right lower limb. He was treated with therapeutic low molecular weight heparin along with supportive care with intravenous fluids and pain relief. In view of his poor ejection fraction, he was treated non-operatively with supportive care. The patient succumbed after three months of presentation. PCD is a rare vascular emergency condition that if not recognized early and treated aggressively may lead to higher morbidity and mortality.

Surgical Considerations in the Treatment of Axillary-Subclavian Venous Thrombosis in the Era of COVID-19

PURPOSE

Traditional treatment of axillary-subclavian venous thrombosis is resource intensive due to the need for advanced nursing care and increased utilization of intensive care units for thrombolysis procedures. We recently encountered this in the management of 2 patients with effort-induced upper extremity venous thrombosis following COVID-19 infection and offer a treatment paradigm for consideration.

CASE REPORTS

A 30-year-old presented with 2 weeks of left upper extremity symptoms following COVID-19 infection. Duplex ultrasound demonstrated axillary-subclavian venous thrombosis and venogram confirmed total occlusion of the axillary and subclavian veins with profuse collaterals around the occlusion. Suction thrombectomy was performed successfully and veins remained patent at 6 month follow up. The patient declined first rib resection and stopped lifting weights. A 16-year-old presented with 4 days of right arm symptoms 1 month after testing positive for COVID-19. Duplex ultrasound revealed acute axillary and subclavian vein thrombosis and she underwent successful thrombectomy followed by balloon angioplasty with improvement in symptoms.

CONCLUSION

The pandemic has strained health care resources such that the treatment of non-life-threatening conditions must be triaged to conserve resources. While axillary-subclavian venous occlusion is usually not life-threatening, timely treatment leads to decreased morbidity and better outcomes. Percutaneous aspiration and thrombectomy without adjunctive thrombolysis may be of benefit in reducing healthcare resource utilization while still achieving good outcomes during the COVID pandemic and beyond.