2018 Volume 11 Issue 3 Pages 355-357
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major healthcare problem that results in significant mortality, morbidity, and expenditure of resources. It compounds with pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Phlegmasia cerulea dolens (PCD) is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening complication of acute DVT characterized by marked swelling of the extremities with pain and cyanosis, which in turn may lead to arterial ischemia and ultimately gangrene with high amputation and mortality rates. The key in treating such patients is to provide quick and effective treatment to save the limbs and the patient.