Localized superficial femoral vein thrombosis coupled with iatrogenic arteriovenous fistulas presenting as pulmonary emboli.

INTRODUCTION

'Localized' femoral vein thrombosis (FVT) is a relatively rare condition usually associated with traumas, external compression or iatrogenic etiologies and the consequence can be pulmonary embolism.

REPORT

This is the case of a 46-year-old woman who presented with pulmonary emboli secondary to 'localized' superficial FVT, coupled with post-puncture arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs), two days after trans-femoral vein radio-frequency cardiac ablation. After placing a temporary IVC-filter, the AVFs were sutured directly while the residual FVT was treated conservatively.

DISCUSSION

Close local monitoring and adequate medical and surgical management are mandatory to avoid possible dangerous complications, also in apparently 'low-risk' iatrogenic AVFs.