Postoperative deep vein thrombosis--early diagnosis and prophylaxis

The incidence of postoperative deep vein thrombosis (DVT) was investigated using the 125I-fibrinogen method and measurement of beta-thromboglobulin on surgical and gynecological patients. It was definitely lower in Japan as compared to Western countries. The age of 50 or more and malignant diseases were significant as risk factors for development of DVT. The presence of hypercoagulability before surgery and on the first postoperative day in addition to postoperative impaired fibrinolysis was considered to be the most important factor in development of DVT. The efficacy of the graded compression stocking for the prevention of DVT was confirmed, reducing from 13.5 per cent to 4.0 per cent. Furthermore, the most effective preventive method is the use of an intermittent pneumatic compression device for high risk patients with DVT.