Incidence and risk factors of deep vein thrombosis in critically Ill patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a frequent and often silent complication in intensive care unit (ICU) patients, markedly increasing the risk of pulmonary embolism and death. However, comprehensive quantitative evidence on ICU-DVT incidence and associated risk factors remains scarce. To synthesize global data on the epidemiology of ICU-DVT and identify independent risk factors, providing a basis for evidence-based, risk-stratified prevention. We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science to July 2024 for observational studies reporting ICU-DVT incidence and risk factors. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) were calculated using random-effects models (PROSPERO ID: CRD42024583844). A total of 186 studies were included, involving 203,880 ICU patients. The overall incidence of DVT was 10.4% (95% CI 8.9%-12.0%). The incidence was significantly higher in COVID-19 patients than in non-COVID-19 patients (12.4% vs. 8.4%, p < 0.01). Medical ICUs had the highest incidence (16.3%), followed by trauma ICUs (11.6%), general ICUs (10.1%), neuro ICUs (8.6%), and surgical ICUs (7.9%). The incidence varied by region (Asia 12.5%, Europe 11.8%; America 9.3%, Oceania 9.1%). Systematic screening significantly improved DVT detection rates compared with clinically suspected diagnosis (14.6% vs. 7.9%). Meta-analysis revealed that central venous catheterization, a history of DVT, use of vasoactive agents, mechanical ventilation, prolonged ICU stay, and malignancy were associated with increased DVT odds. ICU-DVT affects approximately 1 in 10 patients and is associated with distinct modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. The influence of diagnostic strategies on DVT incidence underscores the necessity for standardized screening in the ICU. Future prospective, large-scale studies are warranted to validate causal relationships and enable the development of risk prediction tools for precision prevention.
- Research Article
4
- 10.1177/23259671211030883
- Oct 1, 2021
- Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine
Background:Although a few studies have reported the incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO), previous studies focused only on symptomatic DVT. Information is lacking regarding the overall incidence of DVT after OWHTO, thrombus location, and the relationship between DVT and clinical outcome.Purpose:To determine the overall incidence of DVT and classify the location of DVT after OWHTO. We also determined whether significant differences in clinical improvement exist in patients with and without DVT at 6 months and at 2 years after OWHTO.Study Design:Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:This study included 46 patients (47 knees) who underwent OWHTO. All patients were instructed to perform knee range of motion exercises and partial weightbearing after drain removal. None of the patients received a chemoprophylaxis for DVT except intermittent pneumatic compression. DVT was diagnosed using 128-row multidetector computed tomography performed before discharge on the fourth postoperative day. The location was classified into 6 segments in the distal portion (muscular and axial veins) and proximal portion (popliteal, femoral, and common femoral veins and veins located above the iliac vein). International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score was assessed preoperatively and postoperatively at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years using a linear mixed model.Results:Although the incidence of symptomatic DVT was 8.5% (n = 4), the overall incidence of early DVT was 44.7% (n = 21). All DVTs were located in the distal portion of the lower extremity vein, and 76.2% of the DVTs were located in an axial vein. The IKDC scores were 33.6 ± 7.2 and 35.3 ± 9.1 (P = .910) preoperatively, 38.1 ± 5.6 and 40.6 ± 8.4 (P = .531) at 6 months after surgery, and 44.8 ± 6.9 and 45.9 ± 11.4 (P = .786) at 2 years after surgery in patients without and those with DVT, respectively.Conclusion:The overall incidence of early DVT after OWHTO was 44.7%. DVT after OWHTO was found particularly around the osteotomy site (76.2%). Patients with DVT did not have inferior short-term clinical outcomes after surgery.
- Research Article
9
- 10.5005/jp-journals-10071-23111
- Jan 1, 2019
- Indian Journal of Critical Care Medicine
ABSTRACTBackground and aimsTo determine the incidence of upper and lower limb deep vein thrombosis (DVT) using ultrasonography (USG) in adult patients admitted to neuro-medical and neurosurgical intensive care unit (ICU).Materials and methodsIn this prospective observational study, patients admitted to the medical and surgical neuro-ICU and remained in the ICU for more than 48 hours were recruited. All patients were clinically examined for DVT. Basilic and axillary veins in the upper limbs and popliteal and femoral veins in the lower limbs were screened for DVT using USG. USG examination was performed on the day of admission to ICU and thereafter every 3rd day till discharge from ICU or death. Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) stockings were applied to the lower limbs to all the patients in both ICUs. Unfractionated heparin (UFH) was given subcutaneously to neuromedical ICU patients, while in surgical ICU, it was left to the discretion of the neurosurgeons.ResultsA total of 130 adult patients were admitted to the ICU during the 8 month study period. Thirty patients were excluded and the remaining 98 patients’ (38 in medical and 60 in surgical ICU) data were analyzed. None of the 38 medical ICU patients developed DVT, while in neurosurgical ICU, 4 out of 60 patients developed DVT.ConclusionA combination of UFH and IPC stockings were effective in minimizing the DVT in neuromedical ICU patients. In surgical patients, through IPC stockings were effective, UFH can be considered for patients with intracranial malignancy.How to cite this articleBehera SS, Krishnakumar M, Muthuchellappan R, Philip M. Incidence of Deep Vein Thrombosis in Neurointensive Care Unit Patients—Does Prophylaxis Modality Make Any Difference? Indian Journal of Critical Care Medicine, January 2019;23(1):43-46.
- Supplementary Content
31
- 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1153432
- May 12, 2023
- Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine
BackgroundSpinal cord injury (SCI) is a highly disabling disease with huge public health burden. The complications associated with it, especially deep vein thrombosis (DVT), further aggravate the disability.ObjectiveTo explore the incidence and risk factors of DVT after SCI, in order to provide guidance for disease prevention in the future.MethodsA search was performed on PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane database up to November 9, 2022. Literature screening, information extraction and quality evaluation were performed by two researchers. The data was later combined by metaprop and metan commands in STATA 16.0.ResultsA total of 101 articles were included, including 223,221 patients. Meta-analysis showed that the overall incidence of DVT was 9.3% (95% CI: 8.2%–10.6%), and the incidence of DVT in patients with acute and chronic SCI was 10.9% (95% CI: 8.7%–13.2%) and 5.3% (95% CI: 2.2%–9.7%), respectively. The incidence of DVT decreased gradually with the accumulation of publication years and sample size. However, the annual incidence of DVT has increased since 2017. There are 24 kinds of risk factors that may contribute to the formation of DVT, involving multiple aspects of the baseline characteristics of the patient, biochemical indicators, severity of SCI, and comorbidities.ConclusionsThe incidence of DVT after SCI is high and has been gradually increasing in recent years. Moreover, there are numerous risk factors associated with DVT. Comprehensive preventive measures need to be taken as early as possible in the future.Systematic Review Registrationwww.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42022377466.
- Research Article
132
- 10.1097/aln.0b013e31826be693
- Jan 1, 2013
- Anesthesiology
Survival from critical illness has improved in recent years, leading to increased attention to the sequelae of such illness. Neuromuscular weakness in the intensive care unit (ICU) is common, persistent, and has significant public health implications. The differential diagnosis of weakness in the ICU is extensive and includes critical illness neuromyopathy. Prolonged immobility and bedrest lead to catabolism and muscle atrophy, and are associated with critical illness neuromyopathy and ICU-acquired weakness. Early mobilization therapy has been advocated as a mechanism to prevent ICU-acquired weakness. Early mobilization is safe and feasible in most ICU patients, and improves outcomes. Implementation of early mobilization therapy requires changes in ICU culture, including decreased sedation and bedrest. Various technologies exist to increase compliance with early mobilization programs. Drugs targeting muscle pathways to decrease atrophy and muscle-wasting are in development. Additional research on early mobilization in the ICU is needed.
- Research Article
137
- 10.1080/17453670710014185
- Jan 1, 2007
- Acta Orthopaedica
Background Skeletal trauma and immobilization are well-known risk factors for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). While prophylaxis against thromboembolic complications has become routine after major orthopedic surgery, whether or not prophylaxis after minor surgery and lower limb immobilization is necessary is still under debate.Methods In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 272 consecutive patients were randomized to receive either thromboprophylaxis with Dalteparin (n = 136) or placebo (n = 136) for 5 weeks after ankle fracture surgery. All patients received 1 week of initial treatment with Dalteparin before randomization. A unilateral phlebography was performed when the cast was removed.Results The overall incidence of DVT was 21% (95% CI: 13–29%) in the Dalteparin group and 28% (CI: 19– 37%) in the placebo group (risk ratio = 0.8, CI: 0.6–1.1; p = 0.3). The incidence of proximal DVTs was 4% and 3%, respectively. No major bleeding occurred.Interpretation We found no significant difference in the incidence of DVT between the 2 treatment groups and our results do not support prolonged thromboprophylaxis. The overall incidence of DVT was high, reflecting the potential risk of PE and post-thrombotic syndrome after ankle fracture surgery. Most of the DVTs were asymptomatic, however, and were located in distal veins.
- Research Article
5
- 10.4236/wjcd.2014.411064
- Jan 1, 2014
- World Journal of Cardiovascular Diseases
Objective: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is very common and leading cause of death due to this procedure. The objective of this study was to investigate the incidence and clinical characteristics of DVT after TKA with DVT chemoprophylaxis. Methods: This is a prospective cohort study in single institution. The patients received postoperative DVT chemoprophylaxis (low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) or Fondaparinux), followed by duplex ultrasonography to check for DVT 1 - 2 weeks after TKA. The clinical characteristics were summarized and analysed by chi-square test and regression analysis. Results: Five hundred and thirty four patients were enrolled from January 2007 to December 2010. DVT chemoprophylaxis was administered in 524 (98.1%) of the 534 patients. DVT occurred in 9 subjects (1.69%); 8 subjects had DVT in the leg, and 1 subject had a pulmonary embolism. Among them, asymptomatic DVT was observed in 5 patients (0.94%). Univariate analysis showed that surgical methods (revision, P = 0.0007), body mass index (BMI) (>25, P = 0.0028), low platelet count (less than 150 × 103, P = 0.0219), time in the intensive care unit (ICU) (P < 0.0001), no administration of prophylactic LMWH (P = 0.0392), and a history of DVT (P < 0.0001) were significant risk factors of DVT. Conclusions: The incidence of DVT was 1.69% after TKA with prophylactic antithrombotic therapy. Revision surgery, BMI, low platelet count, time in ICU, absence of prophylactic LMWH and history of DVT were significant risk factors of DVT.
- Research Article
7
- 10.1007/s00590-023-03508-y
- Mar 5, 2023
- European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology
Preoperative deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk factor for postoperative venous thromboembolism (VTE), causing severe mortality. Early detection of preoperative DVT is essential to prevent postoperative VTE. However, little is known regarding preoperative DVT in patients undergoing major surgery. The present study aimed to determine the incidence and risk factors of preoperative DVT in patients admitted for total hip arthroplasty (THA). From August 2017 to September 2022, 243 patients admitted for THA at our institution were enrolled in this study. Patients medical records and preoperative laboratory data were retrospectively collected. According to the results of lower-limb ultrasonography, patients were divided into either the non-DVT (n = 136) or DVT (n = 43) group. The incidence of DVT and independent risk factors for preoperative DVT were investigated using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. The mean age was 74.0 ± 8.4years. Preoperative DVT was diagnosed in 43 of the 243 (17.7%) patients. The risk of DVT was significantly high (p < 0.05) in patients with advanced age, increased D-dimer levels, and malnutrition status, as assessed by the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI). Multivariate analysis showed that advanced age, increased D-dimer level, and malnutrition status assessed by the GNRI were independent risk factors for preoperative DVT. A high incidence of preoperative DVT was observed in patients undergoing THA. Advanced age, increased D-dimer levels, and malnutrition assessed by the GNRI increased the risk of preoperative DVT. Screening high-risk subgroups for preoperative DVT is necessary to prevent postoperative VTE.
- Research Article
32
- 10.1186/s13018-020-02131-5
- Dec 1, 2020
- Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research
ObjectiveClinical characteristics, anticoagulant protocols, and risk factors of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients with femoral and pelvic fractures were analyzed throughout the perioperative period to provide references for early identification and optimization of risk factors.MethodsThis was a retrospective study. A total of 569 patients undergoing surgery of femoral and pelvic fractures from May 2018 to December 2019 were included.The clinical data including general conditions, trauma, surgery, anticoagulant protocols, and laboratory indexes were collected. According to the results of deep vein Doppler ultrasonography of the lower extremities, the patients were divided into non-DVT group and DVT group. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to identify the independent risk factors of preoperative and postoperative DVT.ResultsThe incidence of DVT was 40.25% and preoperative DVT was 26.71%, which was higher than the incidence of postoperative DVT of 17.22%. Most of them were thrombus on the affected side (60.26%) and distal thrombus (81.66%). The average time of DVT formation was 6.55 ± 0.47 days after trauma and 6.67 ± 0.48 days after surgery. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), anemia, hypoproteinemia, non-anticoagulation before surgery, delayed anticoagulation after trauma and admission, high-energy trauma, multiple injuries, drinking history, and advanced age were independent risk factors for perioperative DVT. The increased level of fibrinogen degradation products was an independent risk factor for preoperative DVT. These risk factors were identified to be independently associated with postoperative DVT, including intraoperative blood transfusion, postoperative blood transfusion, pulmonary infection, preoperative non-anticoagulation, postoperative delayed anticoagulation, preoperative waiting time > 7 days, operative time > 2 h, c-reactive protein, fibrinogen level, platelet count 1 day after surgery, c-reactive protein, fibrinogen, and hemoglobin levels 3 days after surgery, comminuted fracture.ConclusionsAt present, anticoagulation and other DVT prevention and treatment programs have not changed the current situation that the incidence of DVT is still high. Through the analysis of the risk factors of DVT throughout the perioperative period, optimizing the perioperative blood transfusion, preoperative lung disease, hypoproteinemia, anemia, inflammation, etc., and surgery as soon as possible after trauma may further reduce its incidence.
- Research Article
13
- 10.1016/j.jvsv.2021.10.013
- Nov 11, 2021
- Journal of Vascular Surgery. Venous and Lymphatic Disorders
Incidence and effects of deep vein thrombosis on the outcome of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 infection
- Research Article
40
- 10.1016/j.jvir.2008.11.018
- Jan 20, 2009
- Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology
Incidence of Deep Vein Thrombosis Associated with Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters in Adults with Cystic Fibrosis
- Research Article
172
- 10.1016/j.ajic.2007.05.011
- May 1, 2008
- American Journal of Infection Control
Epidemiology, etiology, and diagnosis of hospital-acquired pneumonia and ventilator-associated pneumonia in Asian countries
- Research Article
- 10.7759/cureus.93701
- Oct 2, 2025
- Cureus
Background: In patients undergoing lower limb surgery, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious postoperative complication. If not detected and treated right away, it can cause serious morbidity and even death. The purpose of this study is to determine the prevalence of DVT and the risk factors linked to it in patients in the North Indian population undergoing lower limb surgery.Methods: Patients undergoing various lower limb surgical procedures at a tertiary care hospital in North India were the subjects of this prospective observational study. Duplex Doppler ultrasonography was used to assess patients and keep an eye out for DVT symptoms after surgery within 3 to 5 days.Results: The present study was conducted on 65 individuals, all of whom underwent orthopedic surgical procedures. The overall incidence of DVT in the study population was 24.6%, with the remaining 75.4% of subjects showing no evidence of DVT. Factors such as advanced age, prolonged immobilization, previous history of DVT, and presence of comorbidities like “diabetes and hypertension” were found to be strongly associated with an increased risk of developing DVT.Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of early identification and prevention of DVT in patients undergoing lower limb surgery. The overall DVT incidence of 24.6%, particularly in patients with intertrochanteric and femoral neck fractures, reinforces the need for thromboprophylaxis in this population. Risk stratification and use of prophylactic measures such as anticoagulants and early mobilization can play a crucial role in reducing the incidence of DVT in the North Indian population.
- Abstract
- 10.1016/j.jvs.2015.04.316
- May 22, 2015
- Journal of Vascular Surgery
PC180. Incidence and Clinical Characteristics of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) After Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) with DVT Chemoprophylaxis
- Research Article
21
- 10.1007/s00167-020-06326-5
- Oct 21, 2020
- Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy
To examine the incidence of and risk factors for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) among different types of osteotomies around the knee. It was hypothesized that DVT would be detected at a substantial rate after the osteotomy, and there would be differences in the incidences among the different osteotomy procedures. Consecutive patients who underwent knee osteotomies for varus osteoarthritis and met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Ultrasonographic evaluation was performed to detect DVT on bilateral whole leg at 1month before and 7days after surgery. Statistical comparison of the demographic and clinical parameters between the patients with and without DVT as well as multivariate analysis using logistic regression was conducted to identify risk factors related to the incidence of postoperative DVT. The study subjects comprised 159 knees in 135 patients with medial opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOW-HTO), 93 knees in 78 patients with lateral closed wedge high tibial osteotomy (LCW-HTO), and 74 knees in 54 patients with double level osteotomy (DLO). In the postoperative evaluation, DVT was detected in 19 of 159 knees (11.9%) in MOW-HTO, 21 of 93 knees (22.6%) in LCW-HTO, and 5 of 74 knees (6.8%) in DLO. The incidence of DVT was significantly higher after LCW-HTO than after MOW-HTO and DLO (p < 0.01). DVT at a level above the knee was noted in one case after MOW-HTO, while DVT in the remaining cases developed at a level below the knee. No cases of symptomatic pulmonary embolism were encountered during the study period. Among the potential risk factors assessed for correlation with the incidence of DVT, LCW-HTO was identified as a significant risk factor (odds ratio: 2.54; 95% CI 1.334-4.836; p < 0.01). This study demonstrated that DVT occurred at a substantial rate (overall incidence of 13.8%) after osteotomy around the knee even with the use of prophylactic anticoagulant. Among the different osteotomy types, the DVT rate was significantly higher after LCW-HTO than after MOW-HTO and DLO. Prospectively designed observational cohort study, Level III.
- Dissertation
- 10.5353/th_b5088419
- Jan 1, 2013
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) are together known as venous thrombo-embolism (VTE), one of the most common complications after surgery and trauma injury. In the case of critically ill patients, it is also a significant medical and financial burden, associated with high mortality and morbidity. In recent years, much evidence has come to light showing that DVT prophylaxis can effectively reduce DVT, and it has been incorporated into various evidenced-based guidelines (Geerts et al., 2008; Nicolaides et al., 2006). \n \nThe objectives of this study are to examine, through a comprehensive literature review of published studies, the effectiveness of various means of DVT prophylaxis aimed at reducing DVT, and to develop an evidence-based guideline for the use of DVT prophylaxis in surgical intensive care unit (ICU) settings. \n \nKeywords related to DVT prophylaxis were used in conducting the search in electronic bibliographic databases like MEDLlNE, CINAHL, PubMed and the Cochrane Library. A total of 110 articles were identified, and seven studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria of the study. Data from the seven studies have been extracted to form tables of evidence; the qualities of the studies were then rated, and the levels of evidence assigned according to SIGN 50: A guideline developer’s handbook (Network, Harbour & Forsyth, 2011). Three studies attained a higher level of evidence with strong methodological design and demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in the incidence of DVT. \n \nThe implementation potential of DVT prophylaxis was examined in terms of target setting, target audience, transferability of findings, feasibility and cost-benefit ratio. And it was found that the development of evidence-based guidelines for DVT prophylaxis was feasible, cost-beneficial and transferable in current settings. The findings of the seven reviewed studies have been translated into an evidence-based DVT prophylaxis guideline. \n \nThe main focuses of the guideline are the choice of prophylaxis used with surgical ICU patients and the strategies for improving adherence and prophylaxis monitoring. Combined pharmacological and mechanical DVT prophylaxis is recommended for ICU patients who are at high risk of DVT. For patients with active bleeding or high risk of bleeding, mechanical prophylaxis like intermittent pneumatic compressor (IPC) or gradual compression stocking (GCS) should be used first, followed by a review for pharmacological prophylaxis when the risk of bleeding has decreased. In addition, routine assessment of thrombosis and bleeding risk for high-risk ICU patients and regular checking of fitting and functioning of the DVT prophylaxis are recommended. \n \nAn implementation plan consisting of communication, pilot and evaluation plan was developed. A 12-month programme including communication with stakeholders, marketing of the innovation, training of frontline staff, a five-week pilot study and implementation of the guideline followed by evaluation will be carried out. In the evaluation, programme effectiveness was assessed in terms of patient outcome (e.g. incidence of DVT), process outcomes (e.g. level of knowledge related to DVT, compliance with the guideline and level of staff satisfaction) and system outcome (e.g. financial cost reduction).