Endoluminal recanalization in a patient with phlegmasia cerulea dolens using a multimodality approach

Phlegmasia cerulea dolens, a rare complication of deep venous thrombosis, has traditionally been difficult to treat. The patient described in this report posed additional therapeutic challenges based on a history of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. She presented with severe leg pain and swelling, and a venogram showed occlusion of both her inferior vena cava and right iliac vein. The use of a multimodality approach, both chemical and mechanical, was successful in removing the venous occlusion, thereby preventing further complications, such as circulatory shock, postphlebitic syndrome, and venous gangrene.