Enoxaparin-associated severe retroperitoneal bleeding and abdominal compartment syndrome: a report of two cases.
OBJECTIVE
To describe a complication of low-molecular-weight heparin (enoxaparin) in the setting of critically ill patients.


METHODS
Case report.


METHODS
The medical and surgical intensive care units of a tertiary care university teaching hospital.


METHODS
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.


METHODS
Discontinuation of enoxaparin, followed by exploratory laparotomy and evacuation of the hematoma.


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.
Dabney
A
A
Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 3635 Vista Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
Bastani
B
B
D000005:Abdomen; D000368:Aged; D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003161:Compartment Syndromes / Q000139:chemically induced*; D017984:Enoxaparin / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006406:Hematoma / Q000139:chemically induced*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012187:Retroperitoneal Space
D000925:Anticoagulants; D017984:Enoxaparin