Abstract.
Objective: To describe a complication of low-molecular-weight heparin (enoxaparin) in the setting of critically ill patients. Design: Case report. Setting: The medical and surgical intensive care units of a tertiary care university teaching hospital. Patients: Two adult patients receiving enoxaparin developed retroperitoneal hematoma and abdominal compartment syndrome. Both patients became anuric and required high-dose intravenous fluids and vasopressors to maintain blood pressure. Intervention: Discontinuation of enoxaparin, followed by exploratory laparotomy and evacuation of the hematoma. Measurements and results: Immediate clinical improvement following evacuation of hematoma. Conclusions: High-risk patients receiving low-molecular-weight heparin should be identified and closely monitored to prevent serious bleeding complications.
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Final revision received: 10 September 2001
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Dabney, A., Bastani, B. Enoxaparin-associated severe retroperitoneal bleeding and abdominal compartment syndrome: a report of two cases. Intensive Care Med 27, 1954–1957 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00134-001-1133-1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00134-001-1133-1