Page 56 - Virtual Vascular

Prophylaxis of Lower Limb

Deep Vein Thrombosis

Learning points:

• Surgical patients are at increased risk of developing lower limb deep

vein thrombosis (DVT)

• Virchow’s triad include increased thrombotic tendency, changes in

blood flow, and damage to vein wall

• DVT is more likely in females taking oral contraceptive pills, in trauma

patients, or patients with abdominal, pelvic, or orthopedics surgery, and
in patients with immobility, obesity or malignant disease

• Prophylaxis include subcutaneous low molecular weight heparin, active

mobilization, thromboembolic deterrent (TED) stockings, or
intermittent calf compression