Anh Ngoc's case highlights a serious vascular condition. Dr. Tran Quoc Hoai, from the Department of Thoracic and Vascular Surgery at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, explained that the patient suffered from reduced Protein S. This protein plays a role in inhibiting blood clotting, and its deficiency leads to the formation of thrombi (blood clots) within the body. While this genetic disorder typically affects older individuals or those with a family history of vascular disease, occurring in 3-5 out of 100 people, its incidence in healthy individuals such as Anh Ngoc is lower, at 3-13 out of 10,000 people.

Anh Ngoc initially experienced numbness and a dull ache in his hip and lower back. The pain gradually spread down his left leg. Believing it was due to prolonged sitting, he attempted to self-medicate at home. However, when his left leg began to atrophy and felt cold, he sought medical attention at the hospital.

A CT scan revealed a significant blockage extending from the origin of the superficial femoral artery down to the calf. Dr. Hoai diagnosed Anh Ngoc with subacute thrombosis of the left femoral artery. Further complications included infarction and embolism in branches of the left renal artery and splenic artery.

Without prompt intervention, prolonged femoral artery blockage could lead to leg necrosis and permanent disability. Following a consultation, the medical team decided on a treatment plan that included anticoagulants, further investigation into the underlying cause, and open surgery to remove the entire thrombus causing the arterial obstruction.

Dr. Hoai (left) and his surgical team removing a blood clot for the patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Dr. Hoai (left) and his surgical team removing a blood clot for the patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

The microsurgical team performed a reconstruction of the anterior tibial artery and the common tibioperoneal trunk in Anh Ngoc's left leg. These are critical blood vessels responsible for supplying blood to the calf and foot. After the intervention, the patient's left leg regained its normal color, blood flow was restored, and he was discharged after two days.

Dr. Hoai emphasized that a Protein S deficiency makes patients prone to hypercoagulation and requires continuous anticoagulant treatment. He advised that older adults, sedentary individuals, those with chronic underlying conditions, smokers, obese people, or individuals undergoing cancer treatment who experience unexplained numbness in their limbs or persistent pain should seek early medical examination and intervention.

Bao Anh

*Patient's name has been changed