Vena cava superior syndrome associated with total parenteral nutrition

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Svane, S.^;

Affiliations: Surgical Department, Buskerud Central Hospital, Drammen, Norway

Note: [] Correspondence to: Sivert Svane M.D., Surgical Department, Buskerud Central Hospital, 3004 Drammen, Norway.

Abstract: Two patients developed superior vena cava syndrome following total parenteral nutrition through a central venous catheter. Infection may have contributed to the development of the thromboses. In one patient a “sleeve thrombus” probably fragmented when the catheter was withdrawn, leading to multiple pulmonary embolisms. The other patient had a mural thrombosis with complete occlusion of the superior vena cava. In view of the potentially high mortality of this serious complication, early diagnosis and treatment are essential.

Keywords: Total parenteral nutrition, Thrombosis, Superior vena cava syndrome

DOI: 10.3233/JRS-1990-1206

Journal: International Journal of Risk and Safety in Medicine, vol. 1, no. 2, pp. 135-140, 1990