Acute Upper Extremity Deep Vein Thrombosis Following Extensive Nasal Reconstruction Surgery: A Case Report.

Abstract

Upper extremity deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is an uncommon complication in plastic surgery, with a high potential for misdiagnosis due to its rarity. This case report describes a 21-year-old male who developed upper extremity DVT after a comprehensive nasal reconstruction surgery. Despite an initially uneventful procedure, the patient presented with significant pain and swelling in his right arm on the first postoperative day. Doppler ultrasound confirmed acute thrombosis in the brachial, ulnar, and radial veins. Timely anticoagulation therapy led to symptom resolution and thrombus clearance. This case underscores the importance of early recognition and management of upper extremity DVT in postoperative patients to prevent complications. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for DVT in patients with postoperative extremity pain and swelling, regardless of its perceived rarity.