Ischemic monomelic neuropathy as a consequence of intraoperative in-sheath thrombosis

Ischemic monomelic neuropathy (IMN) is a rare peripheral neuropathy caused by limb ischemia and subsequent nerve degeneration, typically manifesting with unilateral pain, paresthesia, and numbness without overt signs of limb ischemia. This case report describes a 59-year-old female with extensive peripheral artery disease who developed IMN in her right lower extremity following an acute, intraoperative in-sheath thrombosis during a right femoral endarterectomy and external iliac artery stent placement, a rare etiology distinct from the more commonly reported associations with bypass surgery or hemodialysis access. Despite successful intraoperative revascularization, the patient developed diminished motor and sensory function with unremitting pain, and subsequent electromyography confirmed a length-dependent neuropathy with features of denervation, consistent with IMN. This case underscores the critical need for clinicians to consider IMN in the differential diagnosis of post-procedural neuropathic pain, even in the absence of classic ischemic signs and following seemingly successful vascular interventions, as acute thrombotic events during vascular procedures can precipitate this debilitating condition.