Venous thrombosis after surgery: causes, prevention, and treatment
Patient safety after surgery is a top priority in modern medicine. The success of an operation is no longer limited to the surgical procedure itself, but extends to the recovery period and the avoidance of serious complications. In this context, Dr. Majd Al-Haddadin, a consultant in general and gastrointestinal surgery, emphasized that venous thrombosis is among the most dangerous complications that can follow major surgeries, noting that it is a leading cause of postoperative mortality if not managed with medical expertise and strict preventative measures.
The concept of venous thromboembolism and its risks
Dr. Haddadin explained that the term "venous thrombosis" in a surgical context encompasses a range of serious conditions, most notably deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which typically affects the lower extremities or pelvis, and pulmonary embolism (PE), which occurs when a blood clot travels through the bloodstream and lodges in the lungs. This combination is medically known as venous thromboembolism (VTE), a concern for surgeons due to its rapid progression and direct impact on the patient's life.
Risk factors: from medical history to the nature of the surgery
Strokes don't happen randomly; they are linked to a range of risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing them. The consultant pointed out that the most prominent of these factors include:
- The patient's health condition: such as having active cancer, advanced age, and extreme obesity.
- Nature of surgery: The risk increases in pelvic surgeries, bone surgeries, and operations that take a long time.
- Procedures during surgery: such as patient positioning, and the use of a surgical tourniquet that may impede blood flow.
- Post-surgery: Lack of movement and prolonged immobilization of the lower limbs is a crucial factor in the formation of blood clots.
Prevention strategies: between mechanical and pharmaceutical solutions
Dr. Haddadin emphasized that modern international medical protocols recommend a two-pronged preventative approach to mitigate these risks. This approach is divided into:
1. Mechanical protection
It relies on physical means to improve blood flow, including early mobilization of the patient once their condition has stabilized, foot and leg exercises, wearing progressive compression stockings, and using intermittent pneumatic compression devices that mimic walking and prevent blood stagnation.
2. Drug prevention
Treatment includes the use of anticoagulants such as warfarin, conventional heparin, and low molecular weight heparin. The doctor noted that the prophylactic treatment period can extend up to 28 days in high-risk cases, emphasizing that the choice of medication and dosage depends on a careful assessment that balances the risk of clotting against the risk of bleeding, taking into account the clinical condition and patient preferences.
Economic and health impact
The impact of venous thrombosis extends beyond the health aspect and the threat to the patient's life; it also places a significant economic burden on the healthcare system due to the costs of prolonged treatment and readmission to hospitals. Therefore, adhering to preventive protocols is crucial as the best option for reducing costs and protecting lives.
Dr. Al-Haddadin concluded his remarks by emphasizing the need for clear institutional protocols that integrate medical and nursing efforts, with a focus on educating the patient about the importance of early walking and adherence to the treatment plan to ensure a safe and complication-free recovery.
