There is a slight risk of death from pulmonary embolism. To avoid this complication, a preoperative venogram is taken to make sure that the thrombus has not extended to the inferior vena cava. Such cava thrombis can be broken off during manipulation of the Fogarty catheter. During surgery, venography or venoscopy can prove the clearance of the iliac vein. Placement of an arteriovenous fistula also decreases this risk.

Re-thrombosis can occur soon after the thrombectomy, but the risk is greatly reduced in the following circumstances:

• When the operation is not carried out if the patient has had symptoms for more than 7 days

• When a temporary arteriovenous fistula is used

• When anticoagulation is carefully monitored after the operation

• When the patient wears compression stockings soon after surgery

Bleeding with hematoma (trapped collection of blood) in the groin may also occur. If so, the hematoma is evacuated to avoid compression of the vein, infection, and re-thrombosis.

Lymphatic drainage is common, but usually stops after 2 to 3 weeks.