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Thromboembolic phenomena after arthroscopic shoulder surgery.
Marshall A Kuremsky1, E Lyle Cain, James E Fleischli
1Alabama Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.
Summary
Thromboembolic events, including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, are rare but serious complications following shoulder arthroscopy. This study identified a low prevalence of these events, emphasizing the need for vigilance and potential risk factor assessment in patients undergoing shoulder surgery.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Vascular Surgery
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Shoulder arthroscopy is a common orthopedic procedure.
- Thromboembolic events (TEEs) are potential complications after surgery.
- Identifying risk factors for TEEs after shoulder arthroscopy is crucial for patient management.
Observation:
- A retrospective review of 1,908 shoulder arthroscopies identified 6 patients with TEEs (0.31% prevalence).
- The TEEs included 5 deep vein thromboses (DVTs) and 4 pulmonary embolisms (PEs).
- All affected patients required hospitalization and anticoagulation therapy.
Findings:
- Ipsilateral upper and lower extremity DVTs were observed in patients with TEEs.
- A significant proportion of patients (4 of 6) experienced PEs.
- Identifiable risk factors were present in 3 of the 6 patients with TEEs.
Implications:
- Postoperative DVT and PE are unusual but potentially fatal complications of arthroscopic shoulder surgery.
- Despite low prevalence, TEEs necessitate hospitalization and anticoagulation.
- Understanding risk factors may improve prevention strategies for TEEs after shoulder arthroscopy.
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