Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 22, 2025

Point-Of-Care Ultrasound Screening for Proximal Lower Extremity Deep Venous Thrombosis
Published on: February 10, 2023
Acute Superficial Vein Thrombosis of the Upper Extremity: A Case Report
Grzegorz J Kwiecien1, Demetrius M Coombs1, Nicholas Sinclair1
1Department of Plastic Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.
Abstract:
Superficial vein thrombosis has traditionally been considered a disease of the lower extremity. Less frequently it can affect the breast, chest wall, penis, or upper extremity. Cases involving upper extremities are usually associated with intravascular access, and the vast majority remain self-limiting. This case report presents a 63-year-old patient who had acute extensive thrombosis of cephalic and basilic venous systems following resection of a desmoid tumor from the flank. This was likely related to intraoperative positioning and resulted in severe symptoms mimicking deep vein thrombosis and carpal tunnel syndrome. Additionally, diagnostic tools available to the hand surgeon that allow prompt diagnosis, management, and prevention are discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction
Veins of Upper Limbs
The deep venous system is primarily composed of the ulnar and radial veins. The ulnar vein, which drains the fingers through the superficial palmar venous arches, and the radial vein, which serves the palms via the deep palmar...
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Venous Thrombosis IV: Nursing Management
Assessment of the Cardiovascular System III: Palpation
Jugular Venous Pressure (JVP) Measurement
Position the patient at a thirty- to forty-five-degree angle or in a semi-fowler's position. Look for the highest point of pulsation in the internal jugular vein and measure the vertical distance to the angle of Loius or sternal angle. A normal JVP is 3-4 cm above...

