Non-fatal extensive cerebral venous thrombosis as a complication of adenotonsillectomy

Abstract Adenotonsillectomy, a common ambulatory surgical procedure performed in the pediatric population, may at times lead to serious postoperative complications. The case of a 10-year-old with extensive cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) following routine adenotonsillectomy is presented and the likely risk factors are discussed. Recent literature regarding CVT in children will be reviewed. To our knowledge, there are no previous reports in the Otolaryngology literature of extensive CVT as a complication of adenotonsillectomy. This clinical entity is more common than previously thought. Awareness and a high index of suspicion and initiation of timely management can reduce the risk of potentially fatal outcomes.