Establishment of a risk assessment score for deep vein thrombosis after artificial liver support system treatment

The artificial liver support system (ALSS) is an effective treatment method for liver failure, but it requires deep venous intubation and long-term indwelling catheterization. However, the coagulation mechanism disorder of basic liver failure diseases, and deep venous thrombosis (DVT) often occur.

To evaluate the risk factors for DVT following use of an ALSS and establish a risk assessment score.

This study was divided into three stages. In the first stage, the risk factors for DVT were screened and the patient data were collected, including ALSS treatment information; biochemical indices; coagulation and hematology indices; complications; procoagulant use therapy status; and a total of 24 indicators. In the second stage, a risk assessment score for DVT after ALSS treatment was developed. In the third stage, the DVT risk assessment score was validated.

A total of 232 patients with liver failure treated with ALSS were enrolled in the first stage, including 12 with lower limb DVT. Logistic regression analysis showed that age [odds ratio (OR), 1.734; P = 0.01], successful catheterization time (OR, 1.667; P = 0.005), activity status (strict bed rest) (OR, 3.049; P = 0.005), and D-dimer level (≥ 500 ng/mL) (OR, 5.532; P < 0.001) were independent risk factors for DVT. We then established a scoring system for risk factors. In the validation group, a total of 213 patients with liver failure were treated with ALSS, including 14 with lower limb DVT. When the cutoff value of risk assessment was 3, the specificity and sensitivity of the risk assessment score were 88.9% and 85.7%, respectively.

A simple risk assessment scoring system was established for DVT patients with liver failure treated with ALSS and was verified to have good sensitivity and specificity.