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Phlegmasia Cerulea Dolens: A Life-Threatening Manifestation of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Chung-Ting J Kou1, Caitlin Batzlaff1, Matthew L Bezzant1
1Internal Medicine, Brooke Army Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston, USA.
Insights
Phlegmasia cerulea dolens (PCD), a severe deep vein thrombosis, can lead to limb loss. This case demonstrates successful treatment of PCD using an EkoSonic™ endovascular catheter, preserving the patient's limb.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Interventional Cardiology
- Thrombosis Research
Background:
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a prevalent condition managed with anticoagulation.
- Phlegmasia cerulea dolens (PCD) is a rare but critical DVT complication.
- PCD necessitates prompt and aggressive intervention to prevent limb ischemia and loss.
Observation:
- A patient presented with phlegmasia cerulea dolens affecting the left lower extremity.
- The condition was characterized by severe swelling, pain, and cyanosis.
- PCD poses a significant risk of gangrene and subsequent amputation.
Findings:
- Successful treatment of PCD was achieved using an EkoSonic™ endovascular catheter.
- This innovative device utilizes ultrasound technology to enhance thrombolytic drug dispersion.
- The endovascular approach facilitated accelerated clot lysis and reperfusion.
Implications:
- The EkoSonic™ catheter offers a promising therapeutic option for phlegmasia cerulea dolens.
- Early recognition and intervention with advanced endovascular techniques can improve patient outcomes.
- This case highlights the potential to salvage limbs threatened by severe DVT manifestations.
Abstract:
Deep vein thrombosis is a common condition encounter by hospitalists and managed by either oral or intravenous anti-coagulation. Although uncommon, phlegmasia cerulea dolens (PCD) is a life-threatening manifestation of acute deep vein thrombosis requiring early recognition and aggressive intervention to preserve life and limb. PCD is characterized by marked swelling of the lower extremities with pain and cyanosis, which often leads to gangrene and amputation. We present the case of a patient who developed PCD of her left lower extremity who was successfully treated with an EkoSonic™ endovascular catheter (Boston Scientific, Marlborough, MA, USA), which accelerates lytic dispersion of the thrombolytic drug through ultrasound technology.
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