Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (HITT) represents a dramatic condition that is difficult to diagnose because of nuanced clinical presentation. Therefore, in every case of microvascular thrombosis during heparin-therapy prompt suspicion about HITT is necessary to avoid flap necrosis. We present a case of HITT which, as the 8 other articles reviewed, clearly shows that HITT is difficult to diagnose and complex to manage. Microvascular reconstruction is the first choice in head and neck reconstruction; unfortunately, dramatic outcomes in free flap surgery due to unpredictable thrombotic events are still reported in the English literature. More knowledge is required about HITT and reaching a consensus about thrombotic prevention in microsurgery could be helpful. Furthermore, a careful anamnesis can help minimise unexpected situations.
Segna, E., Bolzoni, A., Baserga, C., Baj, A. (2016). Free flap loss caused by heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (HITT): A case report and literature review. ACTA OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGICA ITALICA, 36(6), 527-533 [10.14639/0392-100X-1188].
Free flap loss caused by heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (HITT): A case report and literature review
SEGNA, ELEONORA
;Baserga, C.;Baj, A.
2016
Abstract
Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (HITT) represents a dramatic condition that is difficult to diagnose because of nuanced clinical presentation. Therefore, in every case of microvascular thrombosis during heparin-therapy prompt suspicion about HITT is necessary to avoid flap necrosis. We present a case of HITT which, as the 8 other articles reviewed, clearly shows that HITT is difficult to diagnose and complex to manage. Microvascular reconstruction is the first choice in head and neck reconstruction; unfortunately, dramatic outcomes in free flap surgery due to unpredictable thrombotic events are still reported in the English literature. More knowledge is required about HITT and reaching a consensus about thrombotic prevention in microsurgery could be helpful. Furthermore, a careful anamnesis can help minimise unexpected situations.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.