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Point-Of-Care Ultrasound Screening for Proximal Lower Extremity Deep Venous Thrombosis
Published on: February 10, 2023
Venous thromboembolism in pregnancy
1Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, EVMS Internal Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, HH Suite 410, 825 Fairfax Avenue, Norfolk VA 23507, USA. marikpe@evms.edu
Clinics in Chest Medicine
|November 5, 2010
Summary
Pregnancy significantly increases the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), a leading cause of maternal death. Management strategies include compression stockings and postpartum anticoagulation, though antepartum prophylaxis remains debated.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Hematology
- Maternal Health
Background:
- Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major cause of maternal mortality in Western countries.
- Pregnancy induces a hypercoagulable state, increasing thrombotic risk, especially with thrombophilias.
- VTE risk is elevated fivefold during pregnancy and 60-fold postpartum, with diagnostic challenges due to overlapping symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the management of venous thromboembolism (VTE) during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
- To highlight the increased risk of VTE in pregnant and postpartum women.
- To discuss diagnostic complexities and prophylactic strategies for VTE in this population.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on VTE management in pregnancy and postpartum.
- Analysis of risk factors and diagnostic challenges.
- Evaluation of current prophylactic and therapeutic guidelines.
Main Results:
- Pregnancy and the postpartum period present a significantly heightened risk for VTE.
- Diagnostic difficulties arise from symptom overlap between VTE and normal pregnancy.
- Graduated compression stockings and postpartum anticoagulation are recommended for high-risk patients.
Conclusions:
- VTE management in pregnancy requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
- Postpartum anticoagulant prophylaxis is indicated for patients with a history of VTE.
- Further research is needed to clarify indications for antepartum anticoagulation.
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