Plantar Vein Thrombosis in the Medial Branch of the Posterior Tibial Vein: A Case Report

J Am Podiatr Med Assoc. 2022 Apr 27;112(2):20-158. doi: 10.7547/20-158.

Abstract

Plantar vein thrombosis (PVT) is an atypical cause of plantar heel pain and is seldom reported in the literature. We present a unique, rare case report of a patient exhibiting plantar heel and medial arch pain caused by thrombosis in the plantar medial branch of the posterior tibial vein. The diagnosis was made by means of magnetic resonance imaging, showing lobulated hypointensity in the medial plantar vein, consistent with a PVT. In this article, we provide an overview of the clinical signs of PVT, which is most commonly plantar heel pain. Furthermore, we discuss ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging as diagnostic modalities, and conservative treatment options, including anti-inflammatory medications, anticoagulation therapy, and compression therapy. As with other types of venous thromboembolism, this condition must also be diagnosed without delay to avoid potential complications.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use
  • Foot / blood supply
  • Foot / diagnostic imaging
  • Foot Diseases* / diagnosis
  • Heel
  • Humans
  • Pain / etiology
  • Venous Thrombosis* / diagnosis
  • Venous Thrombosis* / diagnostic imaging

Substances

  • Anticoagulants