Laparoscopic procedures as a risk factor of deep venous thrombosis, superficial ascending thrombophlebitis and pulmonary embolism--case report and review of the literature.

Laparoscopy and laparoscopic procedures may have an increased risk for the development of thrombosis due to increased abdominal pressure and negative Trendelenburg position. Patients with varicose veins and a history of thromboembolism may aggravate laparoscopy associated risks for the development of thromboembolic complications. Superficial thrombophlebitis in the thigh is not a benign disease entity and may lead to deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). Urgent surgical treatment (high ligation) may be warranted together with low-molecular weight heparin (LMWH) and compressions therapy. Patients with varicose veins and a history of venous thrombosis may not be suitable candidates for laparoscopic surgery. Family practitioners may be confronted with this complication more often since patients are discharged earlier from hospital after laparoscopic interventions due to legislative regulations.