Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 16, 2025
Point-Of-Care Ultrasound Screening for Proximal Lower Extremity Deep Venous Thrombosis
Published on: February 10, 2023
Thin air, thick blood: High altitude trauma centers have increased deep venous thrombosis rates
Franklin L Wright1, Thomas J Schroeppel2, Michael R Bronsert1
1Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA.
Background:
Patients undergoing elective procedures at altitudes >4000 ft have higher deep venous thrombosis (DVT) rates compared to those performed at ≤ 1000 ft.
Design:
We reviewed the American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program (TQIP) database from 2014 to 2019. Adults are divided into LOW (<1001 ft) or HIGH (>4000 ft) altitude treatment with DVT rates compared by multivariable regression analysis as well as using a 2:1 propensity matched model.
Results:
Risk-adjusted odds ratio (OR) for DVT at high altitude was 1.53 [95 % CI 1.42-1.64]. In patients with an Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥ 16, the DVT rate was 1.10 % (LOW) vs 1.59 % (HIGH); risk-adjusted OR for DVT at high altitude with ISS ≥ 16 was 1.67 [1.53-1.83]. Under the propensity matched model, DVT rates at higher altitude had an OR of 1.59 [1.46-1.74].
Conclusion:
Following traumatic injury, DVT rates are increased in higher altitude treatment facilities compared to their low elevation peers.
Related Concept Videos
01:04Venous Return
What is Venous Return?
Venous return refers to the rate at which blood flows back to the heart from the body's peripheral veins. It's an integral part of the circulatory system...
01:27Assessment of the Cardiovascular System III: Palpation
Jugular Venous Pressure (JVP) Measurement
Position the patient at a thirty- to forty-five-degree angle or in a semi-fowler's position. Look for the highest point of pulsation in the internal jugular vein and measure the vertical distance to the angle of Loius or sternal angle. A normal JVP is 3-4 cm above...
01:29Pulmonary Tuberculosis I
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
01:24Factors Affecting Respiration
01:24Disorders of Hemostasis
Thromboembolic Disorders
Two factors primarily cause thromboembolic conditions.
01:30Anticoagulant Drugs: Low-Molecular-Weight Heparins