Acute Massive Pulmonary Embolism Following High Ligation Combined with Compression Sclerotherapy for Varicose Veins

Abstract

A case of acute pulmonary embolism following high ligation and compression sclerotherapy for varicose veins is reported. A 54-year-old women developed superficial varicosities and stasis pigmentation on her left leg 1 year prior to her first visit to hospital. No deep vein thrombosis was detected by ascending phlebography performed 3 months prior to operation. High ligation combined with compression sclerotherapy was performed for the varicose veins. One day after treatment, the patient complained of chest pain and discomfort, and then collapsed. Perfusion scintigraphy revealed multiple embolisms in the bilateral lungs. The patient recovered after aggressive anticoagulant and thrombolytic therapy. Although pulmonary embolism is a rare complication of sclerotherapy, it is potentially one of the most serious.