What question did this study set out to answer?

To highlight a rare cause of unilateral leg edema in an elderly patient, emphasizing the need for proper diagnostic imaging.

April 25, 2026Open Access

Hematoma Causing Iliac Vein Compression Mimicking Deep Vein Thrombosis in an Elderly Patient with Hip Arthroplasty

Key Points

To highlight a rare cause of unilateral leg edema in an elderly patient, emphasizing the need for proper diagnostic imaging.
Reported a case of an elderly woman with unilateral leg edema and elevated D-dimer.
Utilized contrast-enhanced computed tomography to exclude deep vein thrombosis and identify venous obstruction.
Performed percutaneous aspiration for hematoma management.
Successful resolution of leg edema after aspiration of the hematoma, avoiding anticoagulant therapy.
Imaging confirmed no presence of deep vein thrombosis, leading to appropriate diagnosis.
Case underscores the importance of distinguishing between hematoma and DVT to prevent unnecessary treatments.

Abstract

Unilateral leg edema in elderly patients is often attributed to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), particularly when D-dimer levels are elevated. We report an unusual case of an elderly woman with subacute unilateral leg edema caused by compression of the external iliac vein by a traumatic hematoma following a minor fall. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography excluded DVT and revealed venous obstruction due to the hematoma. Percutaneous aspiration led to prompt resolution of the edema without the need for anticoagulation. This case underscores the importance of appropriate imaging to identify alternative etiologies of unilateral leg edema and avoid potentially harmful empiric anticoagulant therapy. J. Med. Invest. 73 : 291-293, February, 2026.

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