Neck haemorrhage as a complication of oral anticoagulation

Authors

  • Clara Capucho Serviço de Otorrinolaringologia, Hospital de Egas Moniz, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental, Lisboa, Portugal
  • Pedro Escada Serviço de Otorrinolaringologia, Hospital de Egas Moniz, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental, Lisboa, Portugal
  • Madeira da Silva Serviço de Otorrinolaringologia, Hospital de Egas Moniz, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental, Lisboa, Portugal

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.34631/sporl.344

Keywords:

Anticoagulants, adverse events, hematoma, hemorrhage, airway obstruction

Abstract

A case of a cervical hemorrhage caused by the administration of warfarin in a patient with aortic valve disease is presented. Bleeding complications from oral anticoagulants are rare in the cervical region.

The risk of upper airway obstruction and not the risk of hypovolemia, is the main feature of this condition. The patients should be admitted in hospital for reversal of anticoagulantion.

Close observation is mandatory as airway obstruction may become dramatic and life-threatening, requiring a tracheotomy or an endotracheal intubation. Surgical drainage of the hematoma can be harmful.

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How to Cite

Capucho, C., Escada, P., & da Silva, M. (1969). Neck haemorrhage as a complication of oral anticoagulation. Portuguese Journal of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, 46(2), 109–113. https://doi.org/10.34631/sporl.344

Issue

Vol. 46 No. 2 (2008): Junho

Section

Case Report