Excision of internal jugular vein for catheter-related thrombophlebitis

This report describes a case of internal jugular vein (IJV) thrombophlebitis refractory to intravenous (IV) antibiotics and anticoagulation managed with ligation and excision of the vein. Our patient was immunosuppressed for a transplanted organ and developed a catheter-related infection following major pelvic surgery. His symptoms worsened, and failure of medical management prompted operative intervention. Excision of the inflamed, thrombosed vein led to complete resolution of his symptoms.