Pulmonary artery re-thrombosis following interruption of anti-thrombotic therapy for bilateral carpal tunnel release surgery: An update of current protocols

Abstract

In the perioperative period, patients who are under anti-thrombotic therapy should be managed with care, although there is no clear consensus on this matter. For hand surgery, several authors have advocated no interruption of the anti-thrombotic therapy, but the choice differs between institutes according to protocols and surgeons' preference. We report a case of massive pulmonary embolism after stopping warfarin for carpal tunnel release in a patient with a previous history of pulmonary embolism. Although the patient recovered after thrombolytic therapy and intensive care unit (ICU) care, this case has struck the authors as a valuable lesson. In managing anti-thrombotic therapy, we should weigh the risks and benefits of the patients carefully before making a decision. (C) 2012 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.