Deep Vein Thrombosis

(Part 7)  

Last week, we discussed the treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) 

Today, we will present the Prevention of DVT.

The measures your doctor uses to help prevent DVT are called prophylaxis. He or she will use several preventive measures in combination. 

For example, if you are having total knee or total hip replacement, your doctor may prescribe early movement and exercise, compression stockings, and medications that thin the blood and reduce the body’s ability to form blood clots.

If you are having orthopedic surgery, your risk for developing DVT is highest from 2 to 10 days after surgery and includes the time after you have been discharged from the hospital. You remain at risk for about 3 months.

Early Movement and Physical Therapy

Most patients begin walking or doing other leg exercises as soon as possible after surgery. 

Performing simple leg lifts while lying in bed will help increase blood flow through the veins. 

In addition, a physical therapist will teach you specific exercises to restore joint range of motion, strengthen your lower body, and improve circulation in your deep veins. 

If pain after surgery makes it difficult for you to move, you may be given pain medication so that you can move more comfortably.

Compression Devices

Graded elastic compression stockings are tight at the ankle and become looser as they go up the leg. 

The compression they provide may help circulation by preventing blood from pooling in the veins.

In addition, your doctor may recommend that you use an external pneumatic compression device after surgery. 

This device, which is worn like a boot, applies pulsing pressures to the calf. This pressure is similar to that which you experience while you are walking. 

Compression devices not only improve venous blood flow but also stimulate the body’s own ability to prevent blood clots.

Anticoagulants

Anticoagulants, or blood thinners, are used to stop blood clots from getting bigger and to prevent new blood clots from forming. 

If you are having joint replacement surgery, you will start anticoagulants the day after surgery and continue in the hospital and at home. 

The length of time that you take the medication will vary, depending on the type of surgery you have had, as well as other risk factors.

 Additional Measures

If you have experienced a traumatic lower body injury, you may be treated with additional prophylactic measures. Rarely, if you are unable to take anticoagulants, your doctor may recommend inserting a vena cava filter in the main vein leading to your heart. This is done to help prevent a potential DVT from reaching your heart and lungs and causing a pulmonary embolism.