Upper extremity deep vein thrombosis with tourniquet use

Upper extremity deep vein thrombosis is an increasingly important clinical finding with significant morbidity and mortality. The condition may be under-diagnosed in trauma and surgery settings.

We present a case of upper extremity thrombosis with venous congestive symptoms secondary to the use of an operative tourniquet. A literature review and discussion of the causes of upper extremity deep vein thrombosis and the pathophysiological disturbances seen with tourniquet use are presented.

Upper extremity deep venous thrombosis is uncommon. In this case the likely cause was operative tourniquet use.

Operative tourniquet may be a risk factor in upper extremity deep vein thrombosis.