Incidence and Risk Factors of Deep Vein Thrombosis after Foot and Ankle Surgery

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common complication in orthopedic surgery and has the potential to lead to fatal complications such as pulmonary thromboembolism. However, the precise incidence and risk factors for DVT in the foot and ankle fields remain unclear. This study aimed to analyze the prevalence of DVT and identify its risk factors after foot and ankle surgery.

Between September 2020 and July 2023, screening duplex ultrasonography was performed on 278 patients who underwent foot and ankle surgery and required immobilization. The findings from screening duplex ultrasonography were assessed in conjunction with the symptoms present at the time of diagnosis. Heterogeneous demographic data that could serve as potential risk factors for DVT, including diagnosis, body mass index, and other medical histories, were examined alongside pertinent surgery-related data, such as tourniquet time.

Among the 278 individuals, DVT occurred in 41 patients (14.7%). Among these, 92.7% originated at the calf level and the majority were asymptomatic. The cases originating above the calf accounted for 3 cases, representing 7.3% of patients diagnosed with DVT (1.1% of the entire screened population). Acute trauma, history of previous DVT, and old age were identified as statistically significant risk factors for DVT occurrence, with odds ratios of 2.44 (p = 0.04), 6.40 (p = 0.02), and 1.16 (p = 0.03), respectively.

After foot and ankle surgery, DVT occurred in 14.7% of cases. Acute trauma, history of DVT, and old age were identified as risk factors for DVT. These findings highlight the necessity of careful monitoring and appropriate prophylactic interventions for high-risk patients. Further investigation is required to determine effective prophylactic strategies for this patient population.