How should we manage subclavian vein thrombosis?

Publication date: Available online 4 December 2015 Source:Journal of Indian College of Cardiology Author(s): Saroj Das Subclavian vein thrombosis is a rare condition affecting 1-2 per 100,000 population. While thrombolysis and anticoagulation remain the main stay of treatment for subclavian vein thrombosis due to feeding lines and Hickman's lines, treatment of this condition due to thoracic outlet compression involves a different approach. Better understanding of the pathophysiology of subclavian vein thrombosis has led to staged management with improved outcome. In this brief review I have looked at the current knowledge regarding the structural abnormality that exists at the thoracic outlet, the mechanism of subclavian vein thrombosis, the modality for investigation and the rationale for a staged approach based on personal and available literature evidence.

Source: Journal of Indian College of Cardiology - December 5, 2015 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research