Deep Dissecting Hematoma Requiring Surgical Removal During Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation...

Deep dissecting hematoma (DDH) is a disease in which minor trauma leads to the formation of an extensive hematoma. If left untreated, this can result in significant skin necrosis. Therefore, early treatment following a precise diagnosis is essential. However, the complexity of the disease may require differentiating it from soft tissue infections. A 58-year-old man with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia developed skin complications such as purpura and blisters on his right upper extremity while undergoing veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO). We initially suspected a soft tissue infection or venous perfusion defect caused by the VV-ECMO cannula; however, these conditions were not observed. After making an exploratory incision, we diagnosed the patient with DDH and performed hematoma removal and skin grafting. The initial symptoms of DDH include erythema, swelling, and pain. It is important to differentiate DDH from soft tissue infections, especially necrotizing fasciitis, which is a more urgent condition. Because a surgical incision is necessary for the diagnosis and treatment of DDH, we do not hesitate to perform an exploratory incision to prevent skin necrosis, thereby contributing to early healing.