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A Multicenter MRI Protocol for the Evaluation and Quantification of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Published on: June 2, 2015
Is deep vein thrombosis a good proxy for pulmonary embolus?
Javad Parvizi1, Christina L Jacovides, Orhan Bican
1Rothman Institute of Orthopedics at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
The Journal of Arthroplasty
|June 29, 2010
Summary
This study found that deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolus (PE) are not as strongly associated in orthopedic surgery patients as commonly assumed. The findings suggest current prevention strategies may need re-evaluation for this patient group.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Vascular Medicine
- Thrombosis Research
Background:
- Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolus (PE) are significant risks following orthopedic procedures.
- Prevention of DVT is widely believed to reduce PE incidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between symptomatic DVT and PE in patients undergoing orthopedic surgery.
- To determine if the assumed link between DVT and PE holds true in this specific patient population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records for 1495 patients.
- Analysis of patients evaluated for DVT or PE within 90 days of orthopedic surgery (2004-2008).
- Statistical testing for association between DVT and PE diagnoses.
Main Results:
- Only 1.7% of the total cohort (27 cases) had both DVT and PE.
- Association tests did not confirm a higher likelihood of having both conditions compared to having either one.
- The presumed strong link between DVT and PE was not observed in orthopedic surgery patients.
Conclusions:
- The common assumption of a high association between DVT and PE may not apply to patients undergoing orthopedic procedures.
- Further research is needed to understand the specific thrombosis risks in orthopedic surgery patients.
- Clinical management and prevention strategies for DVT and PE in this cohort warrant re-examination.
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