Physical restraint and subcutaneous hematoma in an anticoagulated patient

South Med J. 2001 Feb;94(2):254-5.

Abstract

A large subcutaneous hematoma extending from the breastbone region to the left axillary region and left flank developed in a 86-year-old anticoagulated man because of repeated microtrauma from a physical restraint used to prevent his rising from a chair. Physicians, nurses, and physiotherapists should recognize that physical restraints causing pressure on the skin increase hemorrhagic risk in patients who take low molecular weight heparin. Accordingly, they should systematically check for hemorrhagic complications and attempt to limit the use of such devices.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Anticoagulants / adverse effects*
  • Enoxaparin / adverse effects*
  • Hematoma / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Restraint, Physical* / adverse effects
  • Risk
  • Wounds and Injuries / etiology*

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Enoxaparin