Recurrent Hemorrhage from Intermittent Pneumatic Compression Device Use After the Removal of a Femoral Venous Catheter—A Case Review

Highlights

• Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) is an effective means to prevent thrombus formation.

• IPC may contribute to secondary hemorrhage after removal of a femoral catheter.

• It may be better to discontinue IPC temporarily after the removal of a femoral vein catheter.

Abstract

Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) is an effective method for preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and is comparatively low risk for hemorrhaging compared with anticoagulant therapy. IPC is easily administered, and severe complications are rare. The patient was a 69-year-old male with no underlying diseases related to hemorrhaging of hemostasis. He was hospitalized for treatment of a third-degree burn injury to the upper body. Because the treatment included surgical debridement and skin grafting, there was substantial concern regarding the potential of hemorrhagic complications; hence, IPC was initiated to prevent DVT rather than standard anticoagulant therapy. On the ninth day of hospitalization, a femoral venous catheter initially placed to manage hydration was removed. Manual compression was performed for 15 minutes, and after confirming hemostasis at the insertion site, a hemostasis band was applied for an additional hour. At 90 minutes after confirming hemostasis, there was a secondary hemorrhage at the site of catheter removal. The secondary hemorrhage was stopped with manual compression, and IPC was discontinued. It was concluded that IPC might result in increased blood flow in the femoral vein. This may have contributed to the secondary hemorrhage after the removal of the catheter. Clinicians need to be aware of the fact that IPC may promote secondary hemorrhage after removal of a femoral venous catheter.