Primary subclavian vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism

Thrombotic veno-occlusion of the upper extremity is infrequent in the absence of external trauma or in the presence of an indwelling catheter. Inadvertent injury to the underlying venous circulation can occur when the upper extremity is subjected to an unaccustomed repetitive action. The resultant intimal damage may become a nidus for thrombus development.