Abstract

LAUBSCHER, PH  and  FERGUSON, MC. Venous thrombotic events in arthroscopic shoulder surgery - a case report and review of the literature. SA orthop. j. [online]. 2011, vol.10, n.2, pp.78-80. ISSN 2309-8309.

The incidence of venous thromboembolism complicating shoulder surgery is low. We present a case of a patient who developed a thrombus in the lower leg and subsequently a pulmonary embolus following an arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Further investigation revealed a genetic predisposition to venous thromboembolism. A review of the current literature on this topic has revealed very little research related to possible causes or risk factors. It is clear though that prevention by means of a proper patient-screening protocol is essential. Adequate preventative measures need to be taken in high risk cases. Failure to apply an adequate screening protocol can lead to adverse outcomes in patients who undergo arthroscopic shoulder surgery.

Keywords : shoulder; arthroscopy; complication; thrombus; prevention.

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