Williamson JM, Dalton RS, Chester JF
Popliteal Venous Aneurysm Causing Pulmonary Embolism and Paradoxical Embolisation in a Patient with Antiphospholipid Syndrome. [JOURNAL ARTICLE]
Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2008 May 14.
INTRODUCTION: Popliteal venous aneurysms are rare and can cause recurrent pulmonary emboli despite adequate anticoagulation. REPORT: A 43-year old patient with known antiphospholipid syndrome developed an extensive pulmonary embolus and ischaemic stroke despite anticoagulation. Duplex ultrasound confirmed a right popliteal venous aneurysm containing non-adherent multi-layered thrombus. At operation an 8cmx5cm true aneurysm of the popliteal vein was excised. A postoperative echocardiogram revealed a patent foramen ovale.
DISCUSSION: This case is unusual as the patient suffered a paradoxical embolism due to his patent foramen ovale. Although antiphospholipid syndrome is associated with venous thrombosis, this is usually prevented by therapeutic anticoagulation.
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