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Published on: February 10, 2023
Leucocyte ascorbate levels and postoperative deep venous thrombosis
The British Journal of Surgery
|August 1, 1979
Summary
Preoperative vitamin C (ascorbic acid) did not reduce deep venous thrombosis (DVT) incidence. However, leucocyte ascorbic acid concentration (LAC) levels were lower in DVT patients postoperatively, suggesting a role in DVT pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Research
- Nutritional Science
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a common postoperative complication.
- The role of vitamin C in DVT prevention and pathogenesis is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if preoperative ascorbic acid supplementation reduces postoperative DVT incidence.
- To examine the relationship between leucocyte ascorbic acid concentration (LAC) and DVT development.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
- 44 general surgical patients received ascorbic acid (500 mg b.d.) or placebo for 7 days preoperatively.
- Leucocyte ascorbic acid concentration (LAC) measured pre- and postoperatively; DVT diagnosed via 125I-fibrinogen test and leg scans.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in DVT incidence between ascorbic acid and placebo groups.
- Mean LAC on the day of operation did not differ between DVT and non-DVT groups.
- Significantly lower LAC levels observed on postoperative days 6 and 9 in patients who developed DVT.
Conclusions:
- Preoperative ascorbic acid administration does not decrease postoperative DVT incidence.
- Decreased LAC levels in DVT patients suggest a potential role for leucocyte adherence in DVT pathogenesis.
- Further research is warranted to explore vitamin C's role in DVT pathophysiology.
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