thromboembolism
A national UK-wide survey of tranexamic acid use in vascular surgery
Introduction Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a synthetic lysine analogue that inhibits fibrinolysis and reduces surgical bleeding by stabilising clot formation.1 Large randomised trials have demonstrated its efficacy in a range of clinical settings including trauma, postpartum haemorrhage and cardiac surgery, where TXA has been associated with reductions in mortality, critical bleeding and transfusion requirements.2-5 National…
Blue toe syndrome
Introduction Blue toe syndrome (BTS) is not an uncommon referral, with vascular services often being the first port of call from primary care or the emergency department setting. It is a condition which is often overlooked, misdiagnosed or falsely labelled in the wider medical setting. Nevertheless, it warrants a thorough history, examination and assessment due…
Blue toe syndrome secondary to multiple spontaneous aortic thrombi following pneumonia
Abstract A 65-year-old man presented with bilateral ischaemic toes 11 days following hospital discharge for pneumonia. His initial admission was complicated by atrial fibrillation requiring rivaroxaban on discharge. A thromboembolic cause of his toe ischaemia was suspected. An echocardiogram demonstrated only moderate atherosclerosis. However, repeat echocardiogram revealed five thrombi within the descending aorta. Medical management…
