Aorto-subclavian thromboembolism: a rare complication associated with moderate ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

The case of an arterial aorto-subclavian thromboembolism associated with a moderate ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and following ovulation induction for in-vitro fertilization in a young woman is reported. Because of the lack of response to systemic thrombolysis, a left postero-lateral thoracotomy was performed on day 8 after embryo transfer. A fibrinocruoric embolus situated at the junction of the left subclavian artery from the aorta was removed through a left subclavian arteriotomy. The distal axillary embolus was removed by a retrograde balloon catheter embolectomy. A moderate OHSS was observed. The ovarian stimulation and OHSS-related risks of thromboembolism are discussed. We conclude that, in the absence of risk factors, counselling about possible complications resulting from stimulation must be emphasized.