Deep Vein Thrombosis Prophylaxis Research Articles

Do Decision Support Tools Decrease the Prevalence of Hospital-Acquired Venous Thromboembolisms When Compared to Clinical Judgement? A Single-Center Pre-Post Study.

Introduction: Hospital-acquired venous thromboembolisms (HA-VTEs) carry a significant health burden on patients and a financial burden on hospitals due to reimbursement penalties. VTE prophylaxis at our institute was performed through utilizing an order set based on healthcare professionals' perceived level of risk. However, the use of standardized risk assessment models is recommended by multiple professional societies. Furthermore, integrating decision support tools (DST) based on the standardized risk assessment models has been shown to increase the administration of appropriate deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis. Nonetheless, such scoring systems are not inherently flawless and their integration into EMR as a mandatory step can come at the risk of healthcare professional fatigue and burnout. We conducted a study to evaluate the incidence of HA-VTE and length of stay pre- and post implementation of a DST. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, pre-post-implementation observational study at a tertiary medical center after implementing a mandatory DST. The DST used Padua scores for medical patients and Caprini scores for surgical patients. Patients were identified through ICD-10 codes and outcomes were collected from electronic charts. Healthcare professionals were surveyed through an anonymous survey and stored securely. Statistical analysis was conducted by using R (version 3.4.3). Results: A total of 343 patients developed HA-VTE during the study period. Of these, 170 patients developed HA-VTE in the 9 months following the implementation of the DST, while 173 patients were identified in the 9 months preceding the implementation. There was no statistically significant difference in mean HA-VTE/1000 discharge/month pre- and post implementation (4.4 (SD 1.6) compared to 4.6 (SD 1.2), confidence interval [CI] -1.6 to 1.2, p = 0.8). The DST was used in 73% of all HA-VTE cases over the first 6 months of implementation. The hospital length of stay (LOS) was 14.2 (SD 1.9) days prior to implementation and 14.1 (SD 1.6) days afterwards. No statistically significant change in readmission rates was noted (8.8% (SD 2.6) prior to implementation and 15.53% (SD 9.6) afterwards, CI -14.27 to 0.74, p = 0.07). Of the 56 healthcare professionals who answered the survey, 84% (n = 47) reported to be dissatisfied or extremely dissatisfied with the DST, while 91% (n = 51) reported that it slowed them down. Conclusions: There were no apparent changes in the prevalence of HA-VTE, length of stay, or readmission rates when VTE prophylaxis was mandated through DST compared to a prior model which used order sets based on perceived risk. Further studies are needed to further evaluate the current risk assessment models and improve healthcare professionals' satisfaction with DST.

Post-Bariatric Surgery Nursing Care

Morbid obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) above 40 or having a BMI of 35 and comorbidities along with obesity. Post-bariatric surgery care should include a multidisciplinary team consisting of a surgeon, an endocrinologist, a psychiatrist, a dietitian, and a nurse specializing in bariatric surgery. Close observation, careful and complete evaluation are important in the specialist nursing care of bariatric surgery patients. In bariatric surgery, patients are provided with routine post-operative nursing care such as oxygen and hemodynamic monitoring, pain management, mobilization, wound care, deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis, early and frequent ambulation, drain care, fluid balance nutrition, training, and emotional support.

The efficacy of aspirin as a prophylactic agent for patients recovering from total knee arthroplasties

Guidelines regarding deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis following total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) have had conflicting information regarding the use of aspirin as a prophylactic agent in recent years. The National Institute for Clinical Excellence refrains from listing the drug in its guidelines, while the American College of Chest Physicians advocates for the drug. Despite the conflicting guidelines, physicians have favored the drug in recent years, with more than 80% utilizing it as a prophylactic agent in TKAs. Although a consensus may have been reached by physicians regarding the use of the drug, a consensus has not been reached regarding the preferred dosage. With this in mind, a search of the PubMed database was conducted, which yielded six studies that discussed the efficacy of various dose ranges of aspirin. All studies corroborated that not only was aspirin an effective prophylactic agent but also that there was no significant difference between dosages regarding efficacies. Due to factors such as aspirin resistance and the potential of aspirin to cause gastrointestinal injuries, this literature review concludes that the dosage of aspirin given for the prophylaxis of DVT in TKAs should be considered on a patient-to-patient basis.

Implementation of early prophylaxis for deep-vein thrombosis in intracerebral hemorrhage patients: an observational study from the Chinese Stroke Center Alliance

BackgroundThere is substantial evidence to support the use of several methods for preventing deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) following intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). However, the extent to which these measures are implemented in clinical practice and the factors influencing patients’ receipt of preventive measures remain unclear. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the rate of the early implementation of DVT prophylaxis and the factors associated with its success in patients with ICH.MethodsThis study enrolled 49,950 patients with spontaneous ICH from the Chinese Stroke Center Alliance (CSCA) between August 2015 and July 2019. Early DVT prophylaxis implementation was defined as an intervention occurring within 48 h after admission. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the rate and factors associated with the implementation of early prophylaxis for DVT in patients with ICH.ResultsAmong the 49,950 ICH patients, the rate of early DVT prophylaxis implementation was 49.9%, the rate of early mobilization implementation was 29.49%, and that of pharmacological prophylaxis was 2.02%. Factors associated with an increased likelihood of early DVT prophylaxis being administered in the multivariable model included receiving early rehabilitation therapy (odds ratio [OR], 2.531); admission to stroke unit (OR 2.231); admission to intensive care unit (OR 1.975); being located in central (OR 1.879) or eastern regions (OR 1.529); having a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR 1.292), ischemic stroke (OR 1.245), coronary heart disease or myocardial infarction (OR 1.2); taking antihypertensive drugs (OR 1.136); and having a higher Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score (OR 1.045). Conversely, being male (OR 0.936), being hospitalized in tertiary hospitals (OR 0.778), and having a previous intracranial hemorrhage (OR 0.733) were associated with a lower likelihood of early DVT prophylaxis being administered in patients with ICH.ConclusionsThe implementation rate of early DVT prophylaxis among Chinese patients with ICH was subpar, with pharmacological prophylaxis showing the lowest prevalence. Various controllable factors exerted an impact on the implementation of early DVT prophylaxis in this population.

A316 ACUTE NECROTIZING PANCREATITIS COMPLICATED BY PULMONARY EMBOLISM: A CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Abstract Background Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an inflammatory condition associated with local and systemic complications. Severe pancreatitis can include the development of peripancreatic fluid collections and necrotizing pancreatitis (NP). Vascular complications are one of the causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with AP. Splanchnic thrombosis has been well described in AP and can been seen in up to 24% of patients. Extra splanchnic vessel thrombosis, including pulmonary embolism (PE), is rare. Aims Describe a case of acute NP with peripancreatic fluid collection complicated with bilateral PE and review the relevant literature. Methods We performed a literature review for AP complicated by PE. Results Case: A 60-year-old man presented to the hospital with one day of abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. His medical history was significant for obesity with a BMI of 40. He was not on any medications. He did not drink alcohol. On exam his heart rate was 58, blood pressure 149/94 mmHG, oxygen saturation was 95% on room air, he was afebrile. His abdomen was tender in the epigastric region. His labs revealed a white blood cell count of 14 x 109/L, lipase ampersand:003E 3,000 U/L, Bilirubin 40 umol/ L, AST 613 U/L, ALT 527 U/L, GGT 394 U/L, ALP 94 U/L, Creatinine 159 mmol/L. CT abdomen/pelvis revealed cholelithiasis without choledocholithiasis or biliary dilation. The pancreas was inflammed with necrosis throughout. There were two peripancreatic fluid collections (60mm x 41mm, and 148mm x 89mm). He was diagnosed with acute necrotizing pancreatitis thought secondary to gallstones. He was fluid resuscitated, started on antibiotics and unfractionated heparin (UFH) for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis. His oral intake remained low. Imaging on day 30 showed a large walled off necrotic collection (25cm x15cm). Vascular strucutres were patent. On day 36 he underwent endoscopic ultrasound guided drainage via lumen-apposing metal stent (LAMS). On day 43 he developed new tachycardia. CT chest revealed bilateral pulmonary emboli (Image 1). Doppler ultrasound revealed bilateral occlusive thrombus in the calf veins. He was treated with therapeutic UFH. Literature review: We identified 10 case reports describing AP complicated by PE. The age amonst reports was variable (21 to 68). 4 cases reported additional thrombosis outside of the pulmonary vasculature. No cases which described splanchnic venous thrombosis prior. 3 cases reported pancreatic necrosis. The use of DVT prophylaxis was not reported. There is one case of PE 2 days after LAMS insertion in a patient with known thromboembolic disease. Conclusions PE is a rare complication of AP. Novel to this case was the recent deployment of a LAMS, the significance of which is unknown to date. Improved documentation of variables in future reports is needed to further characterize this event. Image 1: Acute Pulmonary Embolism. Funding Agencies None

Deep Vein Thrombosis Prophylaxis in Orthopedic Surgery.

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a complex and multifactorial process arising from a variety of factors, including recent surgical procedures, traumatic events, and periods of prolonged immobility. The extended period of stasis post-orthopedic surgery places patients at a notably high risk of developing DVT, and DVT-related pulmonary embolism (PE) ranks as the third most common cause of death in orthopedic surgery patients. This review examines the multifaceted risk factors contributing to the development of DVT in orthopedic patients. Additionally, it addressesthe importance of DVT prophylaxis in orthopedic settings,the efficacy and safety of various prophylactic methodsencompassing both mechanical and pharmacological approaches, andthe economic dimensions of DVT prophylaxis, including scrutiny of cost-effectiveness and the exploration of strategies for optimization.

Abstract WP51: Bridging the Gap - Impact of Advanced Practice Nurse in the Community Hospital in Singapore

Background: Stroke is a debilitating condition and patients with acute stroke usually stays about a week in the acute hospital. Those patients with impaired physical function may be transferred to a Community Hospital (CH) for further rehabilitation to optimize their function. In this pilot project, we aimed to incorporate the Stroke Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs) in one of the Community Hospital (OCH) so that stroke care gaps can be identified and to optimize stroke care. Methodology: The Stroke APN obtained their clinical privileges to work in CH. The APN would identify stroke patients admitting to CH for further rehabilitation. APN performed a weekly consultation round to review stroke patients identified in CH. During the consultation round, the APN assessed stroke patients’ neurological function and stroke complications. She also reviewed patient’s vital signs, fluid balances, pending blood results, medications and management. With the information, the APN would recommend change in management accordingly after communicating with the neurology team from the original transferring acute hospital. Results: There were total of 51 issues identified from Aug 2020 to Aug 2021 from 125 patients were reviewed by the Stroke APNs. The Stroke APNs identified 27.5% (n= 14) medical related issues e.g. change in stroke etiology, lack of deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis. There were pharmacological changes in 21.5% (n= 11) of the patients reviewed. Drug changes were usually anti-hypertensives or anti-thrombotics. Post-stroke psychological issue was common and 21.5% (n= 11) of patients developed low mood. To empower patients with their own health, the Stroke APN had to reinforce stroke education in 13.7% (n= 7) of the patients and 7.8% (n= 4) required reinforcement of driving advice. 7 patients (13.7%) requested Information about community resources for them to transit back into the community. Outpatient appointments were streamlined and 7.8% (n= 4) had their appointment has been amended or cancelled. Conclusion: There were high incidence of issues detected during the Stroke APN visiting consultation. The Stroke APN played an important role to manage post-stroke patients appropriately in the CH.

Patterns of Perioperative Hormone Therapy for Gender-Affirming Surgery.

There is no consensus regarding perioperative hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for gender-affirming surgery (GAS). Common concerns for continuing perioperative HRT included risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or hematoma. However, discontinuing HRT is not risk free and may cause mood swing or increased anxiety. Our study aimed to investigate current patterns of HRT before GAS worldwide. The first stage of Delphi technique was implemented by sending a 27-item survey to all surgeons (total n = 150; 94 plastic surgeon, 35 urologist, and 21 gynecologists) of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health who perform GAS. Survey themes included the hormone type, duration, and usage of DVT prophylaxis. Overall survey response rate was 34% (total n = 51; 8 urologists, 35 plastic surgeons, and 8 gynecologists). The majority of surgeons are US-based (n = 39, 76%). The most common HRTs are in injection form (n = 28, 55%). The majority of surgeons do not stop HRT before GAS and do provide DVT prophylaxis to all patients <1 week after GAS. The most common procedure that surgeons discontinue HRT is feminizing bottom surgery (43%). For surgeons who discontinue HRT before GAS, there is a wide variation on discontinuation schedule. There is considerable variation in perioperative HRT patterns for GAS. Further research is needed to develop a data-driven consensus guideline to provide high quality of care for transgender and nonbinary patients.

Effect of Various Ancillary Operating Room Techniques on Wound Healing Outcomes After Total Hip Arthroplasty.

The successful management of wound healing following total hip arthroplasty (THA) is multifaceted, relying on various intraoperative techniques and surgical variables. Recent reviews have evaluated many of these factors, including the comparison between mesh-adhesive dressings and other skin closure methods, the closing time of different suture techniques, and the four aspects of closure for THA (deep fascial layer; subdermal layer; intradermal layer). However, previous articles did not cover certain topics that can be directly influenced by the surgeon. Specifically, these include the use of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis, the management of intraoperative drains, and the selection of surgical approaches. Therefore, in this comprehensive systematic review of the literature, we have focused on three factors that may influence wound healing. We evaluated the following: (1) the impact of different DVT prophylaxis methods on wound healing and infection rates; (2) the effects of intraoperative drain use on wound healing; (3) the influence of various surgical approaches on wound closure, and postoperative infection rates. By concentrating on these areas, this review aims to provide a more complete understanding of the factors that contribute to successful wound management after THA. A systematic search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Medline, and Embase, was conducted to identify studies assessing surgical variables and techniques, specifically focusing on DVT prophylaxis, intraoperative drain use, and surgical approaches and their impact on wound healing in THA. Relevant terms like "hip," "arthroplasty," "wound healing," "DVT prophylaxis," and "surgical approaches" refined the search, which included English language publications until May 1, 2023. Independent screening by two authors and a third mediator facilitated the selection process, with 13 studies meeting the criteria. Assessment of these studies involved evaluating their evidence level and methodological quality using the Modified Coleman Methodology Score (MCMS). A comparison was made on wound healing outcomes in THA, specifically focusing on the three factors outlined in the introduction: (1) the impact of different DVT prophylaxis methods on wound healing and infection rates; (2) the effects of intraoperative drain use on wound healing; and (3) the influence of various surgical approaches on wound closure and postoperative infection rates. Data synthesis for the studies provided a comprehensive summary, categorizing them by evidence level, and aimed to contribute to a more complete understanding of the factors that influence successful wound management after THA. In studies examining DVT prophylaxis for total knee arthroplasties (TKA), three reports found that both rivaroxaban and enoxaparin had similar wound infection rates at 0.36%. However, one study segment suggested a slightly higher infection rate for rivaroxaban at 0.71% compared to enoxaparin's 0.49%. Despite this difference, it was not statistically significant (odds ratio [OR] 1.34, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.46 to 3.86). In recent research, a low dose of aspirin has been observed to yield fewer wound complications when contrasted with other techniques. Five studies on intraoperative drain use revealed mixed outcomes. A total of five studies were identified that evaluated wound complications with drains following THA, comprising two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and three observational cohort studies, with a combined sample size of 765. Among these, four studies specifically compared the use of closed suction drains to no drains. Half of these studies (two out of four) reported no significant differences in wound complications between the two groups, while the other half presented mixed findings. In surgical approach comparisons by Jin et al., meta-analysis between the direct anterior approach (DAA) and posterolateral approach (PLA) showed no significant difference in complications (OR 0.57, p=0.952). Two studies analyzed bikini incision DAA versus PLA or conventional DAA, indicating comparable outcomes with no significant differences in wound complications between the approaches and no major variations in healing, acute PJI, or dysesthesia when comparing bikini incision DAA to conventional DAA. Wound healing post THA is a complex process, influenced by various surgical techniques and intraoperative decisions. This systematic review meticulously examined three critical factors: the role of DVT prophylaxis, the implications of intraoperative drain usage, and the impact of different surgical approaches. Our analysis revealed that rivaroxaban and enoxaparin exhibit similar wound infection rates in THA. The decision to use intraoperative drains in the current literature indicates no definite advantage or disadvantage regarding wound problems with the use of closed-suction drainage in THA. In exploring surgical methodologies, the DAA and the PLA showed comparable complication rates. Yet, specific techniques within the DAA category demonstrated variations in delayed wound healing, particularly among obese patients. These findings emphasize the nuanced role of surgical choices in determining wound healing outcomes. As the field of THA continues to evolve, it becomes important for surgeons to be well-informed, ensuring optimal patient outcomes.

Effect of Various Ancillary Operating Room Techniques on Wound Healing Outcomes After Total Knee Arthroplasty.

The successful management of wound healing after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) depends on several aspects of ancillary intraoperative techniques and surgical variables. Many of these have been evaluated in a few recent reports. The prior reviews studied many aspects of wound healing and, for example, found lower risks of wound complications with barbed sutures compared with interrupted closure with non-barbed sutures, no differences in wound complications between adhesives, subcuticular sutures, staples, glue, or mesh adhesives for the closure of the skin layer, and that mesh adhesives may be associated with faster closing times compared to subcuticular sutures or staples in TKA. However, some topics that can be influenced by the surgeon were not covered in these previous reviews. Namely, the use of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis, tourniquet application, management of intraoperative drains, surgical approach selection, and patellar handling techniques can all potentially influence wound healing. Therefore, in this comprehensive systematic review of the literature, we focused on these five factors that may influence wound healing. Specifically, we evaluated: (1) the impact of different DVT prophylaxis methods on wound healing and infection rates; (2) the role of tourniquet application on wound closure and potential infection risks; (3) the effects of intraoperative drain usage on wound healing; (4) the influence of different surgical approaches on wound closure and postoperative infection rates; and (5) the effects of varying patellar handling strategies on wound healing and infection rates. A systematic search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Medline, and Embase, was conducted to identify studies assessing auxiliary surgical techniques and their impact on wound healing in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Relevant terms like "knee," "arthroplasty," and "wound healing" refined the search, which included English language publications until May 1, 2023. Independent screening by two authors and a third mediator facilitated the selection process, with 24 studies meeting the criteria. Assessment of these studies involved evaluating their evidence level and methodological quality using the Modified Coleman Methodology Score (MCMS). A comparison was made on wound healing outcomes in TKA, which included evaluating methodological quality parameters like sample sizes, follow-up durations, and clinical effect measurements. Data synthesis for the studies provided a comprehensive summary, categorizing them by evidence level. There were seven reports on DVT prophylaxis that showed no statistically significant differences in wound complications among various treatment methods and medications in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA), with wound complication rates ranging from 0.25 to 1%, except that aspirin appeared to have lower wound complications rates in three recent studies than other methods. There were five reports on tourniquet application that showed a generally increased rate of wound complications, but no increase in deep infections. The five reports on intraoperative drain use showed that while there is an increase in total blood loss in the group with drains, ranging from 568ml to 1,856ml, compared to 119ml to 535ml in the no-drain group, there are no significant differences in wound complications, infection rates, or other postoperative outcomes such as swelling, deep vein thrombosis, and range of motion between the drain and no-drain groups. There were three studies on surgical approaches revealing no differences in wound complication rates between the mini-subvastus and medial parapatellar incisions. Also, the surgical variables of patella eversion and anterior tibial translation were only studied in one report. The current literature highlights the importance of using aspirin when possible for DVT prophylaxis and the possibility that tourniquets may lead to increased superficial wound complications. Drains or surgical approach do not appear to lead to wound problems. Surgical variables, such as patella eversion and anterior tibial translation, need more study.

Physicians’ and Nurses’ Use and Determinants of Mechanical Methods for Prophylaxis of Deep-Vein Thrombosis

Physicians’ and Nurses’ Use and Determinants of Mechanical Methods for Prophylaxis of Deep-Vein Thrombosis

A quality improvement project on operative records

Introduction: In 2013 the Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCSEng) published a Standard of Good Practice for surgeons to adhere to in the UK. The guideline included the importance of legible documentation and what should be included in the operative notes. We conducted an audit and quality improvement project in our regional vascular unit in Northern Ireland which showed multiple elements of our operative records that could be improved, such as the documentation of deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis, antibiotic prophylaxis and the use of electronic operative records. Methods: We organised an audit between 3rd and 16th October 2022 where operative notes were collected consecutively and analysed. Multifaceted interventions such as discussion with colleagues, reminder emails and the placement of guidelines around the vascular theatres were done. The second loop of audit was completed between 7th and 20th November 2022. After the audit, we underwent four cycles of Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) where we designed and developed an electronic operative note template and linked it to our electronic records system within the Trust.Results: A total of 24 and 28 operative records were collected, respectively, in the first and second loop of the audit. The majority of the domain showed improvement after the multifaceted interventions: for instance, the documentation of incision (from 46% to 89%), operative diagnosis (from 58% to 93%) and details of closure technique (from 92% to 100%). Through our PDSA cycles, an electronic operative note template was created and improved via feedback from the vascular surgeons. Logistic and IT issues were addressed and we are currently in the process of increasing the number of computers and printers around the vascular theatres. The Vascular Surgical Unit is currently slowly adapting to the use of electronic operative records. Conclusion: Our work has improved the compliance of operative records with the RCSEng guideline and increased the use of electronic operative notes, which are more accessible and legible for our multidisciplinary team.

Trends in deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis after total hip arthroplasty: 2016 to 2021

IntroductionVenous thromboembolism (VTE) has long been acknowledged as a potential complication of total hip arthroplasty (THA) contributing to heightened patient morbidity, mortality, and substantial healthcare costs. We aimed to: 1) assess trends in VTE prophylaxis utilization between 2016 and 2021; 2) determine the incidence of postoperative VTE and transfusions; and 3) identify independent risk factors for 90-day VTE and transfusion risks following THA in relation to the use of aspirin, dabigatran, enoxaparin, rivaroxaban, and warfarin. MethodsA national, all-payer database was queried from January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2022. Use trends for aspirin, enoxaparin, rivaroxaban, dabigatran, and warfarin as thromboprophylaxis following THA was assessed. Incidence of ninety-day postoperative outcomes assessed included rates of 90-day postoperative VTE and transfusion. ResultsFrom 2016 to 2021, aspirin (n = 36,346) was the most used agent for VTE prophylaxis after THA, followed by dabigatran (n = 13,065), rivaroxaban (n = 11,790), enoxaparin (n = 11,380), and warfarin (n = 6326). Independent risk factors for 90-day VTE included CKD, COPD, CHF, obesity, dabigatran, enoxaparin, rivaroxaban, and warfarin (all p < 0.05). ConclusionAspirin was used with increasing frequency and demonstrated lower rates of VTE and transfusion following THA, compared to dabigatran, enoxaparin, rivaroxaban, and warfarin. These findings seem to indicate that the increasing use of aspirin in VTE prophylaxis has been accomplished in appropriately selected patients.

Anticoagulation prophylaxis patterns following retroperitoneal lymph node dissection for testis cancer

IntroductionRetroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) is the standard of care for testicular cancer in various disease settings. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) complications have been reported to occur in <1% of primary RPLND cases and up to 3% of postchemotherapy (PC-RPLND) cases. While prophylactic anticoagulation (AC) has been well-documented to reduce DVT rates in patients undergoing surgery in general, the benefit of prophylactic AC in RPLND has not been assessed. In this retrospective cohort study, we seek to address this unmet need by evaluating the rates and associated risk factors of DVT and pulmonary embolism (PE) with a national and institutional database, assess the changing patterns in DVT prophylaxis with postoperative AC following RPLND, and quantify the potential benefit of prophylactic AC in patients who have undergone RPLND using a risk-stratified approach. MethodsThe National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database was queried for patients who underwent RPLND during the 10-year period from 2011 to 2021. An institutional database was queried for all patients undergoing RPLND from 2013 to 2022. Patient characteristics and operative outcomes were compared between the NSQIP and the institutional database. The institutional database was stratified by prior oncologic treatment (i.e., primary RPLND vs. PC-RPLND) and outcomes were compared. Postoperative AC rate was determined and trended by year. The use of postoperative AC and PE events were stratified by clinical stage. The absolute risk reduction (ARR) of AC prophylaxis on PE events and the number needed to treat (NNT) with AC prophylaxis to prevent a single PE event was determined. ResultsIn total, the NSQIP database query resulted in 779 patients and our institutional database query resulted in 188 patients. The rate of DVT and PE was 1.2% and 0.5% vs. 2.1% and 1.6% in the NSQIP and institutional cohort, respectively. The rate of postoperative AC following RPLND in patients from the institutional database increased from 5% in 2013 to 43% in 2022 (P = 0.01). There were no statistically significant differences in complication rates, including bleeding events, chyle leaks, or hospital readmissions amongst patients who were prescribed AC at discharge and those who were not. No stage I patients developed PEs and no stage I patients were prescribed AC. The ARR for AC prophylaxis for development of PE was found to be 0.023 for the clinical stage II and stage III cohorts. The NNT to prevent a single PE with AC was 44 and 43 for the stage II and stage III cohorts, respectively. ConclusionsAC appears beneficial with minimal risk of harm after RPLND, especially in patients with higher risk of developing DVT/PE, highlighting the safety and efficacy of this regimen. There was a significant increase in the rate of AC prophylaxis at discharge amongst patients undergoing RPLND in the institutional database from 2013 to 2022. A risk-stratified protocol of postoperative AC following RPLND appears reasonable, and further prospective trials are warranted to formally confirm this recommendation.

Does tranexamic acid increase venous thromboembolism risk among trauma patients? A prospective multicenter analysis across 17 level I trauma centers

ImportanceThe early use of tranexamic acid (TXA) has demonstrated benefit among some trauma patients in hemorrhagic shock. The association between TXA administration and thromboembolic events (including deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE) and pulmonary thrombosis (PT)) remains unclear. We aimed to characterize the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) subtypes among trauma patients receiving TXA and to determine whether TXA is associated with VTE risk and mortality. MethodsWe analyzed a prospective, observational, multicenter cohort data from the Consortium of Leaders in the Study of Traumatic Thromboembolism (CLOTT) study group. The study was conducted across 17 US level I trauma centers between January 1, 2018, and December 31,2020. We studied trauma patients ages 18–40 years, admitted for at least 48 h with a minimum of 1 VTE risk factor and followed until hospital discharge or 30 days. We compared TXA recipients to non-recipients for VTE and mortality using inverse probability weighted Cox models. The primary outcome was the presence of documented venous thromboembolism (VTE). The secondary outcome was mortality. VTE was defined as DVT, PE, or PT. ResultsAmong the 7,331 trauma patients analyzed, 466 (6.4%) received TXA. Patients in the TXA group were more severely injured than patients in the non-TXA group (ISS 16+: 69.1% vs. 48.5%, p < 0.001) and a higher percentage underwent a major surgical procedure (85.8% vs. 73.6%, p < 0.001). Among TXA recipients, 12.5% developed VTE (1.3% PT, 2.4% PE, 8.8% DVT) with 5.6% mortality. In the non-TXA group, 4.6% developed VTE (1.1% PT, 0.5% PE, 3.0% DVT) with 1.7% mortality. In analyses adjusting for patient demographic and clinical characteristics, TXA administration was not significantly associated with VTE (aHR 1.00, 95%CI: 0.69–1.46, p = 0.99) but was significantly associated with increased mortality (aHR 2.01, 95%CI: 1.46–2.77, p < 0.001). ConclusionTXA was not clearly identified as an independent risk factor for VTE in adjusted analyses, but the risk of VTE among trauma patients receiving TXA remains high (12.5%). This supports the judicious use of TXA in resuscitation, with consideration of early initiation of DVT prophylaxis in this high-risk group.

Chinese critical care certified course in intensive care unit: a nationwide-based analysis

BackgroundA training program for intensive care unit (ICU) physicians entitled “Chinese Critical Care Certified Course” (5 C) started in China in 2009, intending to improve the quality of intensive care provision. This study aimed to explore the associations between the 5 C certification of physicians and the quality of intensive care provision in China.MethodsThis nationwide analysis collected data regarding 5 C-certified physicians between 2009 and 2019. Fifteen ICU quality control indicators (three structural, four procedural, and eight outcome-based) were collected from the Chinese National Report on the Services, Quality, and Safety in Medical Care System. Provinces were stratified into three groups based on the cumulative number of 5 C certified physicians per million population.ResultsA total of 20,985 (80.41%) physicians from 3,425 public hospitals in 30 Chinese provinces were 5 C certified. The deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis rate in the high 5 C physician-number provinces was significantly higher than in the intermediate 5 C physician-number provinces (67.6% vs. 55.1%, p = 0.043), while ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) rate in the low 5 C physician-number provinces was significantly higher than in the high 5 C physician-number provinces (14.9% vs. 8.9%, p = 0.031).ConclusionsThe higher number of 5 C-certified physicians per million population seemed to be associated with higher DVT prophylaxis rates and lower VAP rates in China, suggesting that the 5 C program might have a beneficial impact on the quality of intensive care provision.

A 65-Year-Old Man with Bilateral Adrenal Hemorrhage Following Prophylaxis for Postoperative Deep Vein Thrombosis with Rivaroxaban.

BACKGROUND Direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) agents, such as rivaroxaban, treat and prevent venous thrombosis. Although adrenal hemorrhage due to DOACs has previously been reported, this is a rare condition that can present as an emergency. In this case report, we present a 65-year-old man who recently had bilateral knee arthroplasty and was started on rivaroxaban 10 mg daily for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis following the surgery. CASE REPORT Ten days after bilateral knee arthroplasty and starting rivaroxaban, the patient presented to the Emergency Department with severe, sudden abdominal pain. Abdominal computed tomography detected significantly enlarged bilateral adrenals, with ill-defined heterogeneous density extending to the upper part of perinephric and paranephric spaces, suggesting bilateral adrenal hemorrhage. A cosyntropin stimulation test was used to confirm the suspicion of adrenal insufficiency. Cortisol levels were 66 nmol/L before stimulation and 83 nmol/L 60 min after cosyntropin administration. Hydrocortisone was started intravenously at a dose of 50 mg every 8 h. After his symptoms improved, he was discharged on oral hydrocortisone at 10 mg in the morning and 5 mg in the evening. Seven weeks after discharge, follow-up abdominal ultrasonography showed that the bilateral adrenal hemorrhage had resolved. CONCLUSIONS This case supports previous cases of adrenal hemorrhage as a rare but serious association with rivaroxaban and highlights the importance of rapid diagnosis using imaging and monitoring of patients for this possible adverse effect. Practitioners must remain vigilant when prescribing anticoagulation therapy, especially in patients who are at an increased risk for adrenal hemorrhage.

Low-dose apixaban or rivaroxaban as secondary prophylaxis of upper extremity deep vein thrombosis.

Upper extremity deep vein thrombosis (UEDVT) may occur without inciting factor or may be secondary to malignancy, surgery, trauma, central venous catheter or related to thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS). International guidelines recommend anticoagulant treatment for at least three months, in particular the use of vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). No data on extended anticoagulant therapy and reduced dose of DOACs have been reported in patients affected by UEDVT with persistent thrombotic risk (active cancer, major congenital thrombophilia) or without affected vein recanalization. In our retrospective observational study, including 43 patients, we treated secondary UEDVT with DOACs. In the acute phase of thrombosis (median time of 4 months), we used therapeutic dose of DOACs; the 32 patients with permanent thrombotic risk factors or without recanalization of the UEDVT were shifted to low-dose DOACs (apixaban 2.5mg twice daily or rivaroxaban 10mg daily). During therapy with full-dose DOACs, 1 patient presented recurrence of thrombosis; no thromboembolic events were observed during treatment with low-dose DOACs. During full-dose treatment, 3 patients presented minor hemorrhagic complications; no hemorrhagic events were observed during DOACs at low dose. We think our preliminary data could support the indication to extend the anticoagulation with dose reduction of DOACs in patients affected by UEDVT and no-transient thrombotic risk. These data should be confirmed in randomized controlled prospective study.

Creatinine clearance predicts the goal enoxaparin dose in traumatic brain injury.

Patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) are at high risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Recent guidelines recommend starting TBI patients on enoxaparin 30 mg twice daily and then considering weight-based dosing. Creatinine clearance may be better than weight for patients when considering high and low enoxaparin dose requirements. We hypothesize that creatinine clearance (CrCl) predicts goal enoxaparin dose better than weight-based dosing. A retrospective review was conducted on patients admitted to an urban, academic Level I trauma center from August 2017 to February 2020. Patients were included if greater than 18 years, admitted longer than 48 hours, and head and neck AIS ≥ 3. Patients were excluded if they did not have TBI, if they received deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis other than enoxaparin 12-hour dosing, if no anti-Xa levels were drawn, or if the goal anti-Xa level was not reached. Patients were grouped into dosing cohorts based on dose of enoxaparin required to reach goal. Pearson's correlation was used to compare mean CrCl and mean weight across dosing cohorts. A total of 120 patients met inclusion and exclusion criteria, mean age was 47 years and 68% of patients were male. The mean hospital length of stay was 24 days. There were 5 (4.2%) deep vein thrombosis, no pulmonary embolism, and 5 (4.2%) patients died. Mean CrCl increased significantly with increased dosing of enoxaparin, Pearson's correlation coefficient of 0.484 ( p < 0.001). Weight on admission also increased with increasing enoxaparin dose requirements, with Pearson's correlation coefficient of 0.411 ( p < 0.001). Creatine clearance predicts goal enoxaparin dose in TBI better than a weight-based dosing strategy. Further research with a larger patient population is required to validate CrCl values to guide enoxaparin dosing. Prognostic and Epidemiological; Level IV.

#3232 ANTICOAGULANT RELATED NEPHROPATHY – AN UNDERDIAGNOSED COMPLICATION

Abstract Background and Aims Anticoagulant-related nephropathy (ARN) is an underdiagnosed complication of anticoagulant therapy (AT). Method We report 3 cases of ARN. Patient 1: 31 year-old male (M), kidney transplanted for reflux nephropathy, with normal renal function (Rfx) and urinalysis (U), on therapy with tacrolimus (FK), everolimus and mycophenolate. He started edoxaban (E) (60 mg od) for deep vein thrombosis (DVT). After 10 days he developed hematuria and Acute Kidney Injury (AKI). Ruled out urological and infectious causes, we performed kidney biopsy (KB) which showed extensive tubular necrosis (TN), erythrocyte casts (cRBC) and glomerular hemorrhage (EG). Perl's stain (PS) showed iron deposits in tubular cells released by erythrocytes lysis (Fig. 1). Although E posology was adequate the concomitant intake of FK by reducing CYP3A4 metabolism of E resulted in over anticoagulation (OAC), demonstrated by the dosage of the factor Xa (FXa) at peak. Upon withdrawal of AT, Rfx and U normalized. Patient 2: 73-year-old M with hypertension and mild chronic kidney disease (CKD) on antiplatelet therapy (ASA 100 mg od) for biological valve prosthesis and AT with Enoxaparin sodium (Es) (4000UI od) for DVT prophylaxis. He was admitted to the hospital for fever and hypotensive episodes. Microbiological, neoplastic and immune investigations were negative. A progressive worsening of Rfx associated with macro-hematuria was observed, requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT). KB showed a post-infectious glomerulonephirits, but in the hypothesis that tubular damage was enhanced by antiplatelet/AT, PS was performed and resulted positive. OAC was confirmed by the dosage of the factor Xa (FXa) at peak. After withdrawal of therapy, progressive improvement of the Rfx and hematuria were observed, such as to allow the suspension of the RRT. Patient 3: 54 year-old M with kidney and lung involvement of ANCA-associated vasculitis. After rituximab induction therapy he showed marked improvement on lung and renal function and antibody titer (c-ANCA PR3 positive). He experienced an unusual worsening of Rfx and hematuria after starting a AT (Es 6000 UI BID) to treat a DVT. A KB was performed in the suspicion of ARN. The histology revealed an extensive TN, numerous cRBC with extracapillary glomerulonephritis and PS positive. IF was negative. OAC was confirmed and adjustment of anticoagulation dose for glomerular filtration rate resulted in improvement of Rfx. Results ARN is a not uncommon occurrence in cases of OAC and glomerular fragility (Table 1). Conclusion ARN should be suspected in predisposed patients in whom glomerular hyperfiltration or preexisting GN during OAC facilitate EG. Attention should be given to drug interactions that can induce an unrecognized OAC. The cases described underline the need for careful monitoring of U, RFx and FXa activity to promptly treat this complication, avoiding permanent damage.