Phlegmasia cerulea dolens is a devastating sequelae of propagating deep vein thrombosis causing total venous outflow obstruction of an extremity. It is characterized by significant pain, edema, cyanosis, and critical limb ischemia and may progress toward venous gangrene. Morbidity and mortality rates associated with this phenomenon are high. Treatment options are limited and consist of early and aggressive therapeutic anticoagulation and fluid resuscitation, followed by thrombectomy or thrombolysis if the patient fails to respond clinically in 6-12 hours.
LaohapensangKHanpipatSAwornSOrrapinS. Surgical venous thrombectomy for phlegmasia cerulea dolens and venous gangrene of the lower extremities. J Med Assoc Thai. 2013;96(11):1463-1469.
