Prevention of subclinical deep vein thrombosis in abdominal surgeries

Abstract

Background: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common but elusive illness that can result in disability and death if not recognized and treated effectively. The reported incidence has not changed much over past couple of decades. The aim of this study was to identify the risk of deep vein thrombosis related to the number of days of immobility and the role of low molecular weight heparin in the prevention of deep vein thrombosis.Methods: A total of hundred (n=100) patients undergoing laparotomy were studied in the post-operative period between January 2014 and December 2016. Patients were divided into two groups alternatively; Group I patients did not receive any DVT prophylaxis and Group II patients were given low molecular weight heparin once a day till mobilization. From 3rdPOD, all the patients were evaluated with detailed history and lower limb examination. D-dimer study was done in all the patients and if positive then followed by Color Venous Doppler. Regular follow-ups were done weekly once for a month, every two weeks for next month and once a month thereafter, minimum for 6 months.Results: A total of hundred (n=100) patients, including 65 men and 35 women, with median age of 40 years underwent laparotomies in 2 years by a single unit. The incidence of Lower Limb DVT in Group I was 8%. The risk factors associated with DVT were sex, BMI, smoking and Malignancy. The signs and symptoms associated with DVT were swelling of lower limbs, pain and tenderness, fever and Homan’s and Moses signs. The D-dimer test results were positive in 9 patients. Color Venous Doppler identified DVT in 8 patients. On regular follow- ups, remissions of clinical symptoms were recorded and repeat Doppler scans showed recanalization in all the patients after 6 months.Conclusions: Deep Vein Thrombosis is multifactorial, and post-operative patients account for majority of cases. Early mobilization and Prophylactic Low Molecular Heparin prevents DVT in abdominal surgeries.