Symptomatic proximal deep venous thrombosis extending to the inferior vena cava after arthroscopic meniscectomy: A case report

Masaki Nagashima, Toshiro Otani, Kota Kojima, Yukio Obitsu , Yasunori Suda, Ken Ishii

Volume 4 | Issue 2 | May – Aug 2019 |

Author: Masaki Nagashima [1,2], Toshiro Otani [3], Kota Kojima [1], Yukio Obitsu  [4], Yasunori Suda [2], Ken Ishii [1,2]

[1] Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, International University of Health and Welfare, Mita Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.
[2] Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, School of Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare, Chiba, Japan.
[3] Institute for Integrated Sports Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
[4] Department of Vascular Surgery, International University of Health and Welfare, Mita Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.

Address of Correspondence
Dr. Masaki Nagashima,
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, International University of Health and Welfare, Mita Hospital, 1-4-3, Mita, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8329, Japan.
E-mail: masakin@iuhw.ac.jp

Abstract

Introduction: Symptomatic deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a relatively rare complication following arthroscopic meniscectomy, however, it has the potential to develop into pulmonary embolism that can be life-threatening. Although DVT has been reported to develop on the affected side, iliac vein compression is a known cause of left-sided DVT, particularly in female patients.

Case Presentation: A 54-year old woman complaining of painful locking of her left knee underwent arthroscopic meniscectomy at our hospital. She had no obvious risk factors for DVT other than the age. Thirteen days after the surgery, she complained of left leg swelling and pain. Contrast enhanced computed tomography revealed a DVT that had extended to the inferior vena cava with iliac vein compression.

Conclusion: The iliac vein compression was a possible cause of the DVT. We believe all patients undergoing left knee arthroscopic surgery should have a careful observation for DVT and be considered for pharmacological DVT prophylaxis.

Keywords: Deep venous thrombosis, Iliac vein compression, Arthroscopic meniscectomy

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