Vascular spasm and gangrene during heparin-dihydro-ergotamine prophylaxis.

A case is reported of a multiple trauma victim who developed severe vascular spasm whilst receiving heparin-dihydro-ergotamine thromboembolic prophylaxis which ultimately led to amputation of the right foot. Identification of high risk groups for this complication is attempted from a review of the literature. Treatment should be with intra-arterial or intravenous nitroprusside or nitrates. Little information is as yet available on the use of prostacyclin in this condition.