P014 IBD AND VTE RISK: LET’S TALK ABOUT IT

Abstract

Abstract Background Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have a 1.5–3 fold increase in the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Additionally, VTE in patients with IBD is associated with a 2.1 fold increase in mortality compared to the general population. The risk of VTE is increased with active inflammation. It is speculated that individuals with IBD are inconsistently advised about VTE risk. This study evaluated the frequency of counseling about VTE in IBD patients. Methods A retrospective medical record review of all IBD patients seen at a university gastroenterology practice during a 5 year period was performed. Patients’ age, gender, disease type and documented counselling about VTE risk were obtained. A database was created maintaining patient confidentiality. Analysis was conducted using Fisher’s Exact Test with significance set at p< 0.05. The study was approved by the university IRB. Results Records of 381 patients were reviewed. There were 209 females and 172 males with a mean age of 44 years (range 20–82). 279 had ulcerative colitis, 96 had Crohn’s disease and 6 had indeterminate colitis. Self-reported ethnicity included 195 White, 97 Black/African-American (AA), 11 Asian, 1 Hawaiian, 34 other and 43 did not report their ethnicity. 13 (3.4%) patients (7 females, 6 males) were counselled about VTE risk. The 7 women who were counselled were <50, with no significant difference in counselling of women <50 compared to women >50 (p=0.11). The 6 men who were counseled were <50, with no significant difference in counseling of men <50 compared to men >50 (p=0.09). There was no difference in the rate of counselling based upon gender (p=1.000), ethnicity (Whites vs. non-Whites, p=0.77; Whites vs. AA, p=1.00) or disease type (p=0.31). Discussion Venous thromboembolism is a known risk of inflammatory bowel disease. While VTEs infrequently occur in IBD patients, it is important that there is awareness about the potential risk. This study revealed that VTE risk is rarely discussed with IBD patients. While this study is limited by single institutional design, size and reliance on documentation, it suggests that increased efforts can be made to educate IBD patients about VTEs. Recognition of VTE risks can improve IBD management and optimize clinical outcomes.