Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 20, 2026
09:22
Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension and Assessment of Right Ventricular Function in the Piglet
Published on: November 4, 2015
[Recurrent pulmonary embolism from left subclavian thrombosis: a case report]
J Kawagoe1, M Takenaga, T Ishikawa
1Division of Cardiology, Miyazaki Cardiovascular Hospital.
Journal of Cardiology
|October 7, 2000
Summary
Recurrent pulmonary thromboembolism despite anticoagulation can be caused by upper extremity deep vein thrombosis. Surgical ligation of the affected subclavian vein effectively prevented recurrence in one patient.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Cardiology
- Thrombosis Research
Background:
- Pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) is a serious condition often managed with anticoagulation.
- Recurrence of PTE despite therapeutic anticoagulation necessitates investigation into underlying causes.
Observation:
- A 38-year-old woman experienced recurrent PTE despite antiplatelet and anticoagulation therapy.
- Diagnostic imaging revealed subtotal occlusion and venous thrombosis of the left subclavian vein.
Findings:
- The patient had no identifiable risk factors for thrombus formation.
- Operative ligation of the left subclavian vein was performed, revealing white thrombus.
- The patient remained recurrence-free for 10 months post-surgery.
Implications:
- Surgical interruption of the subclavian vein may be a viable treatment for recurrent PTE caused by upper extremity venous thrombosis.
- This case highlights the importance of considering upper extremity venous thrombosis in unexplained recurrent PTE.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Pneumothorax-II
Pneumothorax is a medical condition defined by the buildup of air in the pleural space between the lungs and the chest wall. This accumulation of air can lead to partial or complete lung collapse, resulting in a range of clinical manifestations. Understanding the clinical presentation and effective management strategies is crucial for healthcare professionals in providing timely and appropriate care to individuals with pneumothorax.
Clinical Manifestations:
Clinical Manifestations:
01:30Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction
Venous thrombosis, the most common disorder of the veins, involves the formation of a thrombus or blood clot associated with vein inflammation. It can be classified as either superficial vein thrombosis or deep vein thrombosis.Superficial Vein Thrombosis: This involves the formation of a thrombus in a superficial vein, usually the greater or lesser saphenous vein. Though less severe than deep vein thrombosis (DVT), SVT can lead to complications if untreated.Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This...
01:29Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction
Pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a thrombus, fat or air embolus, amniotic fluid, or tumor tissue blocks one or more pulmonary arteries. These blockages originate in the venous system or the right side of the heart.EtiologyPE primarily arises from deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and other hypercoagulable states, such as inherited thrombophilias. Additional etiological factors include venous stasis, commonly seen in obesity, and endothelial injury from surgery and trauma. Less common causes include...
01:29Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Diagnosing Pulmonary EmbolismDiagnosing pulmonary embolism (PE) involves clinical assessment and advanced imaging tests. The preferred diagnostic tool is the spiral (helical) CT scan or CT angiography (CTA), which uses intravenous contrast media to visualize the pulmonary vasculature and identify emboli.A ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan is an alternative for patients unable to receive contrast media. This scan includes both perfusion and ventilation scanning. Perfusion scanning involves...
01:27Pulmonary Embolism III: Nursing Management
A pulmonary embolism occurs when a thrombus, amniotic fluid, tumor tissue, fat, or air embolus blocks one or more pulmonary arteries. Effective nursing management and patient education are crucial for improving outcomes and preventing recurrence.Nursing management starts with obtaining a comprehensive patient history, particularly noting any history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Assess for clinical manifestations, including dyspnea, chest pain, crackles, heart murmurs, and signs of right-sided...
01:19Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction
A blood clot, or thrombus, is a semi-solid mass composed of fibrin, platelets, and red blood cells. When it forms within a vessel, it can obstruct blood flow, known as thrombosis. If part of the clot detaches, it becomes an embolus that can travel and block distant vessels. When this occurs in the pulmonary arteries, it causes a condition known as pulmonary embolism (PE).Origin and ImpactMost often, the embolus originates from a thrombus in the deep veins of the lower limbs, a condition called...