Challenges in the management of iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis in a resource limited setting: a case series

Pan Afr Med J. 2014 Jul 26:18:254. doi: 10.11604/pamj.2014.18.254.2569. eCollection 2014.

Abstract

Iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis is a medical emergency associated with pulmonary embolism, severe postthrombotic morbidity and increased rates of recurrence. We present 3 cases of iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis managed in a setting of limited resources. Results of 2-D Ultrasound scan which suggested proximal DVT was confirmed by Doppler ultrasound scan. Patients were all managed by systemic anticoagulation alone. In experienced hands, it is possible to diagnose iliofemoral DVT with 2-D Ultrasound scan and treatment with systemic anticoagulation alone still has a role. However recent studies have proved clearly the superiority of thrombectomy over systemic anticoagulation alone. There is a need to improve the infrastructure and expertise of clinicians managing these conditions in underdeveloped settings to enable them offer the best to their patients.

Keywords: Iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis; proximal; systemic anticoagulation; thrombectomy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use*
  • Developing Countries
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Enoxaparin / therapeutic use
  • Femoral Vein / diagnostic imaging*
  • Fibrinolytic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Iliac Vein / diagnostic imaging*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nigeria
  • Pulmonary Embolism / prevention & control
  • Ultrasonography
  • Venous Thrombosis / diagnostic imaging
  • Venous Thrombosis / drug therapy*
  • Warfarin / therapeutic use
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Enoxaparin
  • Fibrinolytic Agents
  • Warfarin