A guide to hospital-acquired deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism

A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, typically in the legs. It can cause pain, swelling, and redness in the affected leg.

A pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a blood clot that has formed elsewhere in the body, often in the legs, travels to the lungs and causes a blockage. This can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

DVT and PE are relatively common complications in hospitalized patients, especially those who undergo surgery, are immobile for prolonged periods, or have certain medical conditions.

Risk factors include prolonged immobility, major surgery, certain medical conditions (e.g., cancer, heart failure), obesity, smoking, and a history of previous blood clots.

Preventive measures include using blood-thinning medications, wearing compression stockings, and encouraging mobility when possible. Proper hydration and leg exercises can also help.

Symptoms of a DVT can include pain, swelling, tenderness, and redness in the affected leg. In some cases, there may be no noticeable symptoms.

Symptoms of a PE can include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain that may worsen with deep breaths, rapid heart rate, and coughing, sometimes with bloody sputum.

DVT is typically diagnosed through a combination of a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as an ultrasound. Blood tests may also be used to check for clotting abnormalities.

PE diagnosis may involve imaging tests such as a CT scan or a ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan, along with blood tests and a review of the patient's clinical symptoms and medical history.

Treatment options for DVT include anticoagulant (blood thinner) medications to prevent further clotting, thrombolytic therapy to dissolve clots, and in some cases, surgical intervention.

PE treatments often involve anticoagulant medications, thrombolytic therapy, and in severe cases, surgical procedures such as catheter-directed thrombolysis or surgical embolectomy to remove the clot.

While not all cases can be prevented, many DVTs and PEs can be avoided with appropriate preventive measures, especially in hospitalized patients with known risk factors.

If you suspect a DVT or PE, seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent serious complications.

Yes, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, avoiding prolonged periods of immobility, quitting smoking, and staying hydrated can help reduce the risk.

Long-term effects can include post-thrombotic syndrome (chronic pain and swelling in the affected limb) and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs caused by unresolved clots). Monitoring and ongoing medical care are important.