Extensive DVT Following Prolonged Gaming

Abstract and Introduction

Abstract

Introduction The average time spent playing video games is increasing. Prolonged immobility associated with gaming may therefore be an important risk factor for venous thromboembolism. We report a case of deep vein thrombosis associated with prolonged playing of PlayStation® games.

Case presentation A 31-year-old Caucasian man, an exterior painter, presented with a three-day history of left leg pain and swelling after playing PlayStation® games for almost eight hours a day for four consecutive days. Doppler ultrasound of the left leg confirmed extensive left leg deep venous thrombosis requiring thrombolysis and anticoagulation.

Conclusions Video gaming should be considered a risk factor for venous thromboembolism. Further studies are needed to estimate the degree of risk associated with prolonged periods of playing video games, and education for preventing venous thrombosis should be provided to gamers.

Introduction

A period of prolonged seated immobility is recognised as one of the major risk factors for developing venous thrombosis. Long-distance air travel and prolonged sitting in relation to work or recreation have been shown to increase the risk of venous thrombosis.^[1,2] A recent survey has found that the average time spent playing video games is increasing and that gamers in the United States spend an average of 13 hours each week playing computer games.^[3] Prolonged immobility associated with gaming may therefore be an important risk factor for venous thromboembolism (VTE). We report a case of a 31-year-old man who developed extensive deep vein thrombosis (DVT) associated with prolonged playing of PlayStation® games.