Management of Acute Iliofemoral Deep Venous Thrombosis in Inflammatory Bowel Disease – Transitioning From Conservative Management to Early Intervention

Abstract

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a frequent complication in patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), especially in those with frequent relapses of the disease or extensive inflammatory lesions. The aetiology for the increased risk is multifactorial. Current evidence on management of acute iliofemoral DVT in IBD patients is scarce. This case series highlights two cases of active IBD, who developed acute iliofemoral DVTs and were treated with catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT). This report demonstrates that CDT is effective in clearing the clot burden and producing significant symptomatic improvement in the absence of major complications. An individualised approach must be taken for the management of IBD patients with acute iliofemoral DVT.