Transverse sinus thrombosis after internal jugular vein ligation.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Cerebral vein and dural sinus thrombosis is a rare condition with a wide range of causes and a highly variable presentation. It can lead to significant morbidity, but scant literature is available describing diagnosis and treatment when this occurs after ligation of the internal jugular vein.

OBJECTIVES:

To discuss potential risk factors for cerebral vein and dural sinus thrombosis after ligation of the internal jugular vein, and present current options for diagnosis and treatment.

CASE REPORT:

A 23-year-old male construction worker was brought to the Emergency Department by Emergency Medical Services after sustaining a severe neck laceration from a hand-held grinder. He was treated with ligation of the left internal jugular vein, but subsequently developed severe headaches and symptoms of increased intracranial pressure. A magnetic resonance venogram of the head revealed a left transverse sinus thrombosis requiring treatment with anticoagulation. The placement of a lumboperitoneal shunt was ultimately needed for relief of his symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS:

Early diagnosis and aggressive therapeutic interventions are critical to prevent further morbidity in patients who develop cerebral vein and dural sinus thrombosis after ligation of the internal jugular vein.

• Authors: Brian D Kubiak, Scott P Albert, Margaret A Tandoh, John B Fortune, Paul R G Cunningham
• Journal: The Journal of emergency medicine (J Emerg Med) Vol. 43 Issue 1 Pg. e5-9 (Jul 2012) ISSN: 0736-4679 [Print] United States
• PMID: 19682827 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Topics

• Adult
• Humans
• Jugular Veins (surgery)
• Lateral Sinus Thrombosis (diagnosis, etiology, therapy)
• Ligation (adverse effects)
• Magnetic Resonance Angiography
• Male
• Tomography, X-Ray Computed
• Young Adult