Perioperative incidence and locations of deep vein thrombosis following specific isolated lower extremity fractures

The age, sex, and provoked factors of acute symptomatic deep vein thrombosis on the left and right lower extremities

PURPOSE

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) of the left and right lower extremities was treated in the same way, but the left and right extremities received different levels of attention. This study aimed to investigate the differences between the right and left lower extremity deep vein thrombosis (LEDVT).

METHODS

Clinical characteristics of LEDVT patients from July 2020 to June 2022 were retrospectively analyzed to compare the incidence of LEDVT on different limbs, demographics, predisposing factors, and anatomical characteristics. The exclusion criteria were bilateral LEDVT and recurrent thrombosis. Measured data was analyzed using independent samples t-test or Mann-Whitney test. Count data were analyzed by Chi-square test. A p < 0.05 was considered a statistically significant difference.

RESULTS

There were 478 patients included in this study and the ratio of left to right LEDVT on the left and right limbs was 3.16:1 (363:115). Left LEDVT predominantly affected female, with the major aged > 50 years (50 - 60 years: 16.80%; > 60 years: 57.30%). The primary predisposing factor was iliac vein compression syndrome, with iliofemoral thrombosis being the main type. Male patients with LEDVT on the right limb were predominant and the age of onset was usually ≤ 60 years (52.17%). The main predisposing factor was recent surgery or trauma (< 30 days) and femoropopliteal thrombosis was the main type. In more detail, the left iliac vein was compressed mainly in the proximal segment, and the right iliac vein was compressed mainly in the intermediate and distal segments. Recent surgery or trauma to the locomotor system and genitourinary system often induced LEDVT.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of LEDVT on the left is significantly higher than that on the right. LEDVT on different sides has different characteristics, which is crucial for prevention and diagnosis in the relevant population so there are also differences in treatment of the affected limbs.

Association of thromboelastogram hypercoagulability with postoperative deep venous thrombosis of the lower extremity in patients with femur and pelvic fractures: a cohort study

BACKGROUND

The relationship between thromboelastogram (TEG) hypercoagulation status and perioperative deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients with femoral and pelvic fractures is not well understood. We aimed to investigate the relationship between hypercoagulation status identified by thromboelastography and postoperative DVT formation in patients with femoral and pelvic fractures, as well as to evaluate the role of thromboelastography in assessing hypercoagulation status and predicting postoperative DVT formation.

METHODS

Data from 2,065 patients with femoral and pelvic fractures who underwent surgical treatment at a hospital in China between May 2018 and December 2023 were retrospectively analysed. Hypercoagulable TEG was defined as reaction time (R) < 5 min, coagulation time (K) < 1 min, alpha angle (α) > 72 degrees, maximum amplitude (MA) > 70 mm, and/or coagulation index (CI) > 3. The correlation between preoperative hypercoagulability identified by TEG and postoperative DVT formation was assessed using multivariate logistic regression. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to control for confounding factors.

RESULTS

Compared to the non-DVT group, the DVT group had decreased R and K values, while the α, MA, and CI values significantly increased (P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that hypercoagulable TEG findings were predictive of postoperative DVT formation. PSM, using a 0.1 calliper value, matched 296 patients from the hypercoagulation and non-hypercoagulation groups in a 1:1 ratio. Before PSM, hypercoagulable TEG was associated with DVT in femoral and pelvic fractures (P < 0.001, odds ratio [OR]:1.860, 95% confidence interval: 1.389-2.492). After PSM, these two variables remained correlated (P = 0.001, OR = 1.878, 95% confidence interval:1.301 - 2.709).

CONCLUSIONS

The hypercoagulable state identified by TEG can predict thromboembolic events in patients with femoral and pelvic fractures.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Register ( https://www.chictr.org.cn/bin/home ) on April 16, 2024, with registration number ChiCTR2400083135.

Establishment and validation of a predictive model for lower extremity deep vein thrombosis in patients with traumatic pelvic fractures

BACKGROUND

Patients with traumatic pelvic fracture (TPF) are at high risk for developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT). However, there is still no unified standard on how to distinguish high-risk groups for DVT in patients with TPF and how to accurately use anticoagulants at present.

OBJECTIVES

This observational study aimed to establish a DVT risk nomogram score (DRNS) model for TPF patients, and to explore the value of the DRNS model as a clinical guideline in the prevention of DVT with low molecular weight heparin (LMWH).

METHODS

Independent risk factors of lower extremity DVT were screened through Lasso regression and logistic regression. A DRNS model was established per this.

RESULTS

The independent risk factors of DVT included combined femoral fractures, age ≥ 40 years old, BMI (body mass index) ≥ 24 kg/m2, ISS score, fibrinogen concentration, and the minimum concentration of ionized calcium within 48 h after admission. The optimal cutoff value for DRNS was 78.5. In the low-risk population of DVT (DRNS < 78.5), there was no statistical significance of variation about the incidence of DVT progression between the LMWH once a day (qd) group and the LMWH once every 12 h (q12h) group, with P = 0.323. In the high-risk population of DVT (DRNS ≥ 78.5), the incidence of DVT progression in the LMWH qd group was significantly higher than that in the LMWH q12h group, with P = 0.002.

CONCLUSIONS

The DRNS model based on independent risk factors of DVT could stratify the risk of DVT for TPF patients, and it was able to provide more precise DVT drug prevention plans for clinicians.

Prevalence and risk factors of symptomatic venous thromboembolism in distal femur fractures

INTRODUCTION

There is a paucity of published research on symptomatic venous thromboembolism (sVTE) after distal femur fractures (DFFs). This study aimed to explore the prevalence and risk factors of sVTE in DFFs.

METHODS

We identified a total of 131 patients who underwent DFF surgeries without routine pharmacological thromboprophylaxis between October 2007 and November 2016. Cases of sVTE included symptomatic pulmonary embolism (sPE) and symptomatic deep vein thrombosis (sDVT). Patients with sVTE were compared to those without, and differences in demographics and fracture-related characteristics were explored. Multivariate logistic regression was used to eliminate confounding factors.

RESULTS

Of the 131 patients, 20 (15.3%) had sVTE, of whom 16 (12.2%) had sDVT and six (4.6%) had sPE (two patients had both sPE and sDVT). Notably, 17 (85.0%) sVTE patients were aged ≥60 years, while only 62 (55.9%) non-sVTE patients were aged ≥60 years (P = 0.014). Fourteen (82.4%) patients with sVTE had body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m2, while 49 (53.3%) patients without sVTE had BMI ≥25 kg/m2 (P = 0.032). Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated that age ≥60 years (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 5.05; P = 0.040) and BMI ≥25 kg/m2 (adjusted OR 3.92; P = 0.045) were independently associated with a higher risk of sVTE after DFF.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of sVTE in DFFs is high at 15.3%. Advanced age (≥60 years) and being overweight (BMI ≥25 kg/m2) were two independent risk factors for sVTE in DFFs. The use of routine pharmacological thromboprophylaxis should be considered as a preventative measure.

Predictors of 30-day mortality, unplanned related readmission and reoperation among isolated closed femoral shaft fractures

Background

Isolated, closed, femoral shaft fractures are dangerous injuries that commonly occur in the setting of high energy trauma or among older patients with significant comorbidities. Despite their prevalence, relatively little data exists connecting patient independent risk factors to the time to 30-day mortality, unplanned reoperations and unplanned readmissions in these fractures.

Methods

Using National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database, isolated close femoral shaft fractures were identified using ICD-10 codes. Patient demographics, perioperative course and adverse events were identified. Categorical and binary variables were analyzed among procedure cohorts using Chi2 analysis. Univariate and multivariate analysis were conducted to identify independent risk factors associated with primary outcomes.

Results

Between 2010 and 2019, 1346 closed isolated femoral shaft fracture patients with a mean age of 66.7 were identified, of whom 30.6% and 69.4% were male and female, respectively. Surgical procedures included: 915 (68.0%) intramedullary nail (IMN); 428 (31.8%) open reduction internal fixation (ORIF); and 3 (0.2%) external fixator (Ex-fix). Patients who underwent ORIF reported 3.19 (OR: 3.19; CI: 1.45-7.03; p = 0.004) and 2.12 (OR: 2.12; CI: 1.10-4.09; p = 0.024) increased odds of mortality and unplanned related readmission compared to patients who received IMN. Transfusion, DVT, and PE rates were 34.2%, 1.4%, and 1.1%, respectively. Furthermore, 50% of mortality cases occurred within 6 days of surgery. Patients requiring reintubation reported 61.8 (OR: 61.8; CI: 15.7-242.40; p < 0.001) increased odds of mortality compared to patients not requiring reintubation.

Conclusion

Patients with femoral shaft fractures who require reintubation have increased odds of mortality than those successfully extubated. In addition to precautions prior to extubation, patients with femoral shaft fractures should also be carefully monitored for the development of DVT or PE, and they should be definitively fixed with IMN whenever possible.

Pulmonary embolism and deep venous thrombosis in China

The Annual Report on Cardiovascular Health and Diseases in China (2022) intricate landscape of cardiovascular health in China. In connection with the previous section, this eighth section of the report offers a comprehensive analysis of pulmonary embolism and deep venous thrombosis. In recent years, research in the field of pulmonary vessel in China has made great progress. A number of nationwide multi-center registry research results have filled the gaps in the epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary hypertension and venous thromboembolism. Different types of pulmonary hypertension still need attention to the identification of risk factors and/or risk stratification, and venous thromboembolism needs attention in the prevention and the overall management inside and outside hospital. In the future, we look forward to the publication of more high-quality research in China, which could be able to improve relevant guidelines for pulmonary vascular diseases both domestically and internationally.

Dynamic observation and risk factors analysis of deep vein thrombosis after hip fracture

OBJECTIVE

To dynamically observe the occurrence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after a hip fracture and analyze of the risk factors affecting the dynamic alteration of DVT.

METHODS

Data of patients with hip fractures from January 1, 2017 to August 31, 2021 were collected. Patients were divided into DVT and non-DVT groups according to their daily Doppler ultrasonography findings. Survival analysis was used to describe dynamic changes in DVT occurrence with time. Log-rank tests were used to compare the influence of individual factors of patients with DVT occurrence, and a Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to identify the risk factors affecting the dynamic alteration of DVT occurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 331 patients were included: 148(44.7%) had preoperative DVT, and 143 (96.6%) had DVT in the first 3days after admission. The probability of DVT was 0.42 on Day 1, 0.11 on Day 2, 0.10 on Day 3, 0.08 on Day 4, 0.20 on Day 5, and 0.00 on Day 6-7, with a median survival time of 3.30 d. Age>70 years, intertrochanteric fracture, admission hemoglobin<130g/L, and admission hematocrit<40% had a significantly higher occurrence rate of DVT. A hematocrit level of <40% (Hazard Ratio 2.079, 95% Confidence Interval:1.148-3.764, P = 0.016) was an independent risk factor for DVT.

CONCLUSION

DVT after hip fractures mainly occurred in the first three days after admission, the trend was stabilized within one week, and day 1 had the highest rate of DVT incidence. Age, fracture type, HGB level, and Hct level affected dynamic occurrence of DVT. At constant other factors, Hct<40% was 2.079-fold incidence in the risk of preoperative DVT formation than those with Hct≥40% after hip fracture.

Prevalence and risk factors for proximal deep vein thrombosis at admission in patients with traumatic fractures: a multicenter retrospective study

Objective

This study aimed to determine the associated risk factors for proximal deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients with lower extremity and pelvic-acetabular fractures.

Methods

The medical records of 4,056 patients with lower extremity and pelvic-acetabular fractures were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were classified into proximal or non-proximal DVT groups. Logistic regression models were used to determine the independent risk variables for proximal DVT. The predictive value of the related risk factors was further analyzed using receiver operating characteristic curves.

Results

The prevalence of proximal DVT was 3.16%. Sex, body mass index (BMI), fracture site, injury mechanism, diabetes, coronary heart disease (CHD), injury-to-admission interval, hematocrit, platelet counts, and D-dimer levels differed significantly between the two groups. BMI ≥ 24.0 kg/m2, femoral shaft fractures, high-energy injury, diabetes, injury-to-admission interval >24 h were independent risk factors for proximal DVT. CHD decreased the risk of proximal DVT. The platelet and D-dimer had high negative predictive value for predicting proximal DVT formation, with cut-off values of 174 × 109/L and 2.18 mg/L, respectively.

Conclusion

BMI ≥ 24.0 kg/m2, femoral shaft fractures, high-energy injury, diabetes, injury-to-admission interval >24 h were independent risk factors for proximal DVT in patients with lower extremity and pelvic-acetabular fractures. Platelet count and D-dimer level were effective indicators for excluding proximal DVT occurrence. CHD decreased the risk of proximal DVT.

Prevalence of preoperative deep vein thrombosis in long bone fractures of lower limbs: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

There is a paucity of data regarding the prevalence of preoperative deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients with long bone (including femur, tibia and fibula) fractures of the lower limbs. We performed a meta-analysis to address the issue.

METHODS

Electronic databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, the Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, the VIP database, CNKI, and the Wanfang database, were systematic searched for original articles that reported the prevalence of preoperative DVT in long bone fractures of the lower limbs from January 2016 to September 2021. The prevalence of preoperative DVT was pooled using random-effects models, and subgroups were established according to study type, detection method, sample size and fracture site.

RESULTS

Twenty-three articles reporting on 18,119 patients were eligible. The overall pooled preoperative DVT prevalence was 24.1% (95% CI 19.3-28.8%). In different subgroups, the preoperative DVT prevalences were 18.2-27.3%, 15.2-28.6%, 23.1-24.9%, 18.2-26.0% and 23.2-23.4% for different study designs, sample sizes, age groups, detection methods and fracture sites, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the heterogeneity among studies, this systematic review suggests that the prevalence of preoperative DVT, which may seriously affect the prognosis of patients, is high. Therefore, greater efforts should be devoted to the improvement of screening and prevention strategies for preoperative DVT in lower-extremity long bone fractures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III. Trial Registration The study was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) database with the registration number CRD42022324706.

The impact of pre-existing venous pathology on lower limb free flap reconstruction and the role of preoperative screening: a systematic review

Lower limb reconstruction is performed to replace like with like and achieve tissue durability. Free flaps are a method of reconstruction commonly used to manage cases of lower limb deficits. However, the failure rate is 8.5%, with venous thrombosis and congestion playing a significant role. Despite this, preoperative venous mapping of recipient site before free flap reconstruction is not routinely practiced, often resulting in pathologies remaining unidentified until the intraoperative stage. The aim of the review was to evaluate the existing literature on the topic of lower limb preoperative venous assessment, screening, and its effect on lower limb free flap survival. Five different databases were searched from their inception to August 2021. The search terms and included studies were independently reviewed by two investigators for their eligibility. Eleven articles were eligible for inclusion, with a combined patient population of 99, and 107 flaps were identified to have lower limb pathology at the donor or recipient vein. Venous pathology was detected preoperatively in 69 veins using ultrasound duplex scanning and computed tomography angiography; of them, 3 (4.34%) resulted in failure. In comparison, 38 veins were diagnosed with venous pathology intraoperatively; of them, 5 (13.85%) failed. The studies evaluated in this review demonstrated that preoperative screening for venous pathology showed a higher flap survival rate. It can therefore be inferred that developing a standardized preoperative process for identifying venous issues in lower limb free flap reconstruction may improve outcomes. This can be explored in future research, with a focus on assessing the validity and efficacy of such screening tools, and their role in the management of patients identified with venous pathology.

Incidence of venous thromboembolism in patients with sickle cell disease undergoing noncardiovascular surgery

OBJECTIVE

Patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) will have a baseline hypercoagulable state and an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Few data are available regarding the efficacy of standard prophylaxis in preventing VTE after noncardiovascular surgery for patients with SCD. Our objective was to investigate the incidence of VTE in patients with SCD who had undergone noncardiovascular surgery.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective medical record review of 352 patients with SCD who had undergone noncardiovascular surgery from August 2009 to August 2019 at Beaumont Hospitals. An equal number of control patients without SCD were propensity matched for age, sex, race, body mass index, and specific surgery. The data collected included demographics, comorbidities, VTE prophylaxis used, occurrence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), hospital length of stay, and 30-day mortality.

RESULTS

We found no differences in age, race, sex, ethnicity, operative time, or hospital length of stay between the SCD and propensity-matched control patients. DVT prophylaxis was used more frequently for the SCD patients than for the controls (96.0% vs 88.6%; P < .001). Four SCD patients (1.1%) had developed DVT vs five control patients (1.4%; P > .999). One patient in each group had developed PE (0.3%; P > .999). No difference was found in 30-day mortality between the SCD group and the control group (1 [0.3%] vs 3 [0.9%]; P = .312). Of those with a diagnosis of VTE ≤30 days postoperatively, no differences were present in age, sex, race, BMI, or procedure type. DVT had been diagnosed significantly later in the SCD patients than in the controls (median, postoperative day 12 vs 5; P = .014). None of the five SCD patients with VTE was a smoker compared with four of the six non-SCD patients with VTE, who were current or former tobacco users (P = .061). All the patients who had developed VTE had received DVT prophylaxis at surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

We found no differences in the perioperative rates of DVT, PE, or mortality between the SCD patients and matched control patients after noncardiovascular surgery. Vigilant attention to routine VTE prophylaxis seemed to effectively reduce the VTE risk for these hypercoagulable patients. SCD patients might need VTE prophylaxis for a longer period postoperatively compared with those without SCD.

Identifying Patients at Risk for Venous Thromboembolic Events After Isolated Upper Extremity Trauma: A Predictive Scale

Previous studies have defined risk factors for development of venous thromboembolisms (VTEs) among patients with lower extremity orthopedic trauma. Limited data exist on this risk after upper extremity orthopedic trauma. A total of 269,137 incidents of upper extremity orthopedic trauma (fractures of the clavicle, scapula, humerus, elbow, or lower arm) were identified in the State Inpatient Database for 4 states included in the analysis (California, Florida, New York, and Washington) from 2006 to 2014. These patients were split into 2 cohorts, a derivation cohort (California and New York) and a validation cohort (Florida and Washington). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses of risk factors for VTE within 90 days of discharge in the derivation group were used to develop the Thromboembolic Risk after Upper Extremity Trauma (TRUE-T) scale. Linear regression was used to determine fit of the TRUE-T scale to the 2 cohorts. We found that 2.61% of patients in the derivation cohort and 2.72% of patients in the validation cohort had a VTE within 90 days of discharge. Risk factors associated with increased rates of VTE were age older than 40 years, Medicare payer, anemia, chronic lung disease, coagulopathy, heart failure, malignancy, obesity, renal failure, head injury, chest injury, abdominal injury, rib fracture, humerus fracture, elbow fracture, and closed reduction. Application of the TRUE-T scale to the validation cohort showed an R² value of 0.88. The patient factors, concomitant injuries, and fracture treatment modalities included in the TRUE-T scale can be used to identify patients at increased risk for VTE after upper extremity orthopedic trauma. [Orthopedics. 2022;45(6):345-352.].

Incidence and risk factors of clinically important venous thromboembolism in tibial plateau fractures

While there are multiple reports on venous thromboembolism (VTE) associated with several orthopedic procedures, the knowledge regarding incidence and risk factors of VTE in tibial plateau fractures is limited. This study aimed to investigate the incidence and risk factors of clinically important venous thromboembolism (CIVTE) in patients with tibial plateau fractures. All adult patients who underwent surgical treatment of tibia plateau fractures between 2003 and 2018 in our level 1 trauma center were included in the study. All patients suspected CIVTE were assessed by the ultrasonography and/or CT scan. Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to evaluate the association between potential risk factors and CIVTE Variables. Thirty-nine of 462 patients (8.4%) developed clinically important venous thromboembolism, in which pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) were observed in 18 (3.9%) and 21 (4.54%) patients, respectively. Male gender (OR 9.75; 95% CI 2.34-40.66), spine injury (OR 9.51; 95% CI 3.39-26.64), other extremity injury (OR 3.7; 95% CI 1.58-8.66), length of stay in ICU (OR 1.14; 95% CI 1.09-1.2) were all risk factors for CIVTE. The incidence of CIVTE in tibial plateau fracture was relatively high (8.4%); The male gender, spine injury, other extremity injury, length of stay in ICU were the independent risk factors.

Preoperative anemia and deep vein thrombosis in patients with perioperative bone trauma: a cohort study

Background

In current active prevention (including physical and drug prevention), the incidence of perioperative deep vein thrombosis (DVT) of the lower extremities remains high in patients with bone trauma. Risk factors need to be further optimized, and high-risk patients must be identified early. Preoperative comorbidities, especially preoperative anemia, and DVT in patients with perioperative bone trauma are not clear. The purpose of this study was to explore the causal relationship between preoperative anemia and DVT in patients with perioperative bone trauma, and further reduce the incidence of DVT in patients with bone trauma.

Objectives

To analyze the relationship between preoperative anemia and perioperative DVT in patients with femoral and pelvic fractures and provide a reference for the optimization of risk factors for DVT.

Methods

The clinical data of 1049 patients with femoral and pelvic fractures who received surgical treatment from May 2018 to June 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed for the covariates of DVT. Modified Poisson regression was used to analyze the relationship between preoperative anemia and DVT.

Results

After matching 1:1 propensity scores in 1049 patients included in this study, there were 258 patients in the anemic and non-anemic groups. Preoperative anemia was statistically significant for the formation of DVT in patients with perioperative bone trauma (P = 0.000, RR = 1.567 [95% CI 1.217–2.017]). This conclusion remained true after PSM (P = 0.009, RR = 1.500 [95% CI 1.105–2.036]). Preoperative anemia has some predictive value for perioperative DVT, with DVT-associated preoperative anemia thresholds of 125 g/L and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.5877 (95% CI 0.5345 to 0.6408). On this basis, sensitivity and specificity were 89.2 and 30.3%, respectively, with a Youden index of 0.195. In addition, we conducted an E-value determination of the propensity score; the E-value analysis showed robustness to unmeasured confounding.

Conclusions

Preoperative anemia is highly correlated with perioperative DVT in patients with bone trauma, which is the cause of perioperative DVT in these patients.

Deep vein thrombosis in donor or recipient veins encountered during lower extremity reconstruction with a free anterolateral thigh perforator flap: How do we deal with it?

Background

The free anterolateral thigh perforator (ALTP) flap has been successfully adopted to reconstruct traumatic soft tissue defects in the lower extremities. However, the occurrence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in donor or recipient veins has been overlooked, and there has been no reliable guideline to manage it. Therefore, in this study, we review our cases where the ALTP flaps were transferred to traumatic lower limbs even though DVT was found in the pedicle or recipient veins. Furthermore, based on our experiences, we suggest an algorithmic approach for dealing with DVT.

Patients and methods

This study included 108 patients who underwent lower extremity reconstruction using a free ALTP flap between January 2014 and January 2021. All medical records were reviewed, including preoperative assessment data, intraoperative findings, and postoperative complications. Notably, when DVT was found in both the donor and recipient veins, we thoroughly assessed operative findings, surgical solutions, and final outcomes.

Results

Sixty-one of 108 (56.4%) patients underwent computed tomographic venography (CTV) preoperatively, revealing DVT in 11 of these 61 (18%) patients. Three of these 11 patients had iliofemoral DVT, and surgery was delayed more than two weeks after detection. The remaining eight patients had calf DVT and underwent free ALTP flap transfer as scheduled. Conversely, 47 of 108 (43.6%) patients did not undergo CTV, and an occult DVT was found in five of these 47 (10.6%) patients. In two of these five patients, free flap surgery was replaced with amputation and local flap coverage. In the remaining three patients and one patient with an occult DVT that was not found on CTV, the free ALTP flap transfer was carried out. In 15 patients with DVT, free ALTP flap transfer was performed using various alternative methods for venorrhaphy. Consequently, all flaps survived, with partial necrosis occurring in two patients.

Conclusion

If DVT-affected veins are appropriately managed, the free ALTP flap can be successfully transferred to the traumatic lower limb even when DVT occurs in donor or recipient veins. The author's algorithm can help surgeons overcome the insufficiency of veins for pedicle anastomosis due to DVT and avoid postoperative thromboembolic complications.

Characteristics of Deep Venous Thrombosis in Isolated Lower Extremity Fractures and Unsolved Problems in Guidelines: A Review of Recent Literature

Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) has been characterized by a disorder of venous return caused by abnormal blood clotting in deep veins. It often occurs in the lower limbs and is a common complication in orthopaedics. Therefore, relevant professional organizations domestic and overseas had formulated and constantly updated relevant guidelines to prevent the occurrence of DVT. According to the management strategy of the guidelines, the incidence of DVT can be significantly reduced. However, due to the variety of fractures types, the guidelines cannot expound precautions and characteristics of DVT for all fracture types at present, and there are other related unresolved problems. For example, there is still a lack of consistent optimal strategies for the management of DVT following isolated lower extremity fractures with a higher incidence. The best anticoagulant strategies for patients with upper limb fractures, pediatric fractures, and those combined with other injuries are rarely described in orthopaedic guidelines, but such fractures are common in clinical orthopaedics. The long‐term complications after DVT, such as post‐thrombotic syndrome, are not well‐understood. In the absence of clear guidance, orthopaedic surgeons often resort to empiric anticoagulation or conservative treatment, so the prevention effects of DVT are inconsistent. The purpose of this review is to summarize the characteristics of DVT events after isolated lower extremity fractures and to discuss the unsolved issues in the guidelines by reviewing the previous literature and tracing the history of DVT discovery, to provide more scientific and comprehensive recommendations for the prediction and prevention of DVT.

Prevalence of preoperative Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT) following elderly intertrochanteric fractures and development of a risk prediction model

Background

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of preoperative deep venous thrombosis (DVT) following intertrochanteric fractures in the elderly and identify the associated factors, based on which a risk prediction model was developed.

Method

This was a retrospective single-center study of elderly patients presenting with intertrochanteric fractures between our institution between January 2017 and December 2020. Patients' duplex ultrasound (DUS) or venography results were retrieved to evaluate whether they had a preoperative deep venous thrombosis (DVT) of bilateral extremities, whereby patients were dichotomized. Various variables of interest on demographics, comorbidities, injury and biomarkers were extracted and their relationship between DVT were investigated. Statistically significant variables tested in multivariate logistics regression analyses were used to develop a risk prediction model.

Results

There were 855 patients eligible to be included in this study, and 105 were found to have preoperative DVT, with a prevalence rate of 12.3%. Ten factors were tested as significantly different and 2 marginally significant between DVT and non-DVT groups in the univariate analyses, but only 6 demonstrated the independent effect on DVT occurrence, including history of a VTE event (OR, 4.43; 95%CI, 2.04 to 9.62), time from injury to DVT screening (OR, 1.19; 95%CI, 1.13 to 1.25), BMI (OR, 1.11; 95%CI, 1.04–1.18), peripheral vascular disease (OR, 2.66; 95%CI, 1.10 to 6.40), reduced albumin (2.35; 95%CI, 1.48 to 3.71) and D-Dimer > 1.0 mg/L(OR, 1.90; 95%CI, 1.13 to 3.20). The DVT risk model showed an AUC of 0.780 (95%CI, 0.731 to 0.829), with a sensitivity of 0.667 and a specificity of 0.777.

Conclusion

Despite without a so high prevalence rate of DVT in a general population with intertrochanteric fracture, particular attention should be paid to those involved in the associated risk factors above. The risk prediction model exhibited the improved specificity, but its validity required further studies to verify.

Characteristics and Treatment Strategy of Isolated Calf Deep Venous Thrombosis after Fractures: A Review of Recent Literature

Isolated calf deep venous thrombosis (ICDVT) includes thrombosis located at the far end of the popliteal vein, such as the anterior tibial vein, posterior tibial vein, fibular vein, and intramuscular vein of the soleus and gastrocnemius. This type of thrombosis has the highest incidence, accounting for approximately half of all deep vein thrombosis (DVT) cases; however, there is no consistent recommendation for ICDVT treatment across countries, and there is also no optimal management strategy. In recent years, increasing evidence has shown that ICDVT can develop into proximal DVT, even causing pulmonary embolism (PE). Therefore, some experts suggest anticoagulant therapy for this type of DVT, while others hold an opposing attitude. Therefore, the treatment strategy for this type of DVT has become a hot and difficult research topic. The purpose of this review is to summarize the characteristics of ICDVT and the effects of different treatment strategies by analyzing recent and important classical works in the literature in an attempt to provide recommendations for the treatment of this most common type of DVT in orthopaedic clinics.

Incidence and risk factors of preoperative isolated calf deep venous thrombosis following hip fractures

ABSTRACT

There is still a lack of data on isolated calf deep vein thrombosis (ICDVT) following hip fractures surgery. The study aimed to determine the incidence of preoperative ICDVT and the associated risk factors in patients with hip fractures requiring surgery.The 289 patients who required hip surgery were included, duplex ultrasonography was routinely used to make a definite diagnosis of preoperative ICDVT located in unilateral or bilateral calf. Data on demographics and laboratory-associated blood biomarkers results were included. Univariate analyses were used to analyse the data of demographics, comorbidities, personal history operation related indexes and laboratory biomarkers, then the multivariate logistic regression analysis was employed to identify the independent risk factors associated with ICDVT.Sixty-eight (23.5%) patients were diagnosed with preoperative ICDVTs. The univariate analyses showed significant differences regarding ICDVT were age, current smoking, alcohol consumption, time from injury to operation, albumin, white blood cells, lymphocyte, red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and activated partial thromboplastin time level among the 44 factors. The multivariable model confirmed 3 risk factors were significantly independent in association with preoperative ICDVTs, including current smoking, time delay from injury to operation and activated partial thromboplastin time ( < 28seconds).The incidence of preoperative ICDVT in hip fracture was 23.5%, and patients with associated risk factors are prone to form ICDVTs, identification of these factors may help to reduce the incidence of ICDVT with hip fractures by taking early prevention measures.

Preoperative incidence and risk factors of deep venous thrombosis in patients with isolated femoral shaft fracture

Background

Preoperative deep vein thrombosis (DVT) of the lower extremities delays surgery in patients with femoral shaft fractures and impairs functional recovery. However, studies on preoperative DVT in patients with femoral shaft fractures are still rare. This study was aimed to retrospectively analyze the preoperative incidence, location and risk factors associated with DVT in patients with femoral shaft fractures.

Methods

Data of patients with femoral shaft fractures and treated with surgery at the Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University were retrospectively collected from January 2013 to December 2019. The information collected included demographic data, comorbidities, injury-related data and laboratory tests. Patients were divided into DVT and non-DVT groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine independent risk factors.

Results

A total of 432 patients were included in this study, of whom 114 (26.4%) patients were diagnosed with preoperative DVT (all asymptomatic) and injured extremities of 78.1% (89/114) were investigated. Multivariate analysis showed that older age (increase in each 10 years), delay time from injury to operation (in each day), FIB > 4 g/L were independent risk factors for preoperative DVT.

Conclusion

Patients with femoral shaft fractures (especially the elderly and patients with the above-mentioned conditions) are at the risk of DVT right from admission to surgery hence should be intensively monitored and provided with prompt treatment to prevent DVT.

Preoperative incidence and risk factors of deep vein thrombosis in patients with an isolated patellar fracture

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the incidence, location, and related factors of preoperative deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in patients with isolated patellar fractures.

Methods

Patients with an isolated patellar fracture, admitted between January 2013 and December 2019 at our institution, were retrospectively analyzed. Upon admission, patients underwent routine Doppler ultrasound scanning (DUS) of the bilateral lower extremities to detect DVT; those with DVT were assigned to the case group and those without DVT to the control group. Patients in both groups did not perform preoperative off-bed weight-bearing exercises. Data on demographics, comorbidities, and laboratory test results upon admission were extracted. Variables were evaluated between the two groups using univariate analyses, and independent risk factors associated with DVT were identified by logistic regression analysis.

Results

During the study period, 827 patients were included, of whom 5.8% (48/827) were found to have preoperative DVT. In DVT patients, 85.4%(41/48) were injured, 8.3%(4/48) were not injured, and 6.3%(3/48) were lower limbs. Multivariate analysis showed that male (male vs. female, odds ratio, OR = 2.25), delayed from injury to DUS (in each day, OR = 1.29), and elevated plasma D-dimer level (> 0.5 µg/mL, OR = 2.47) were independent risk factors associated with DVT.

Conclusions

Despite the low prevalence of DVT after an isolated patellar fracture, this study underscores the importance of identifying those with a high risk of DVT, especially those with multiple identifiable factors, and encourage the early targeted use of anti-thromboembolic agents to reduce DVT occurrence.

Epidemiological status and risk factors of deep vein thrombosis in patients with femoral neck fracture

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and clarify the risk factors of DVT in patients with femoral neck fracture.

Methods

A self-designed questionnaire was used to collect the clinical data of 1209 patients with femoral neck fracture in our hospital from January 2019 to December 2019. The content of the questionnaire mainly includes general information, past medical history, history of present illness, operation related information, occurrence of DVT. The collected data were entered into Excel to analyze the incidence and risk factors of DVT in patients with femoral neck fracture. Chi square test and binary logistic regression model was used to screen the risk factors of DVT.

Results

1209 cases of femoral neck fracture were included in this study. The incidence of DVT was 28.0% (339 patients). Among them, 71.7% (243 patients) were preoperative DVT and 28.3% (96 patients) were postoperative DVT. For the risk-factor analysis, gender, age, time from injury to hospitalization, operative method, anesthesia method and intraoperative blood loss were independent risk factors for DVT.

Conclusion

The incidence of DVT in patients with femoral neck fracture is relatively high, and there are many related risk factors.

Incidence and risk factors associated with preoperative deep venous thrombosis in the young and middle-aged patients after hip fracture

Objective

This study aims to investigate the incidence, occurrence timing and locations of preoperative DVT and identify the associated factors in this group.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of collected data in young and middle-aged (18–59 years) patients who presented with hip fracture between October 2015 and December 2018 was conducted. Before operation, patients were routinely examined for DVT by Duplex ultrasonography (DUS). Electronic medical records were retrieved to collect the data, involving demographics, comorbidities, injury and laboratory biomarkers after admission. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors that were independently associated with DVT.

Results

Eight hundred and fifty-seven patients were included, and 51 (6.0%) were diagnosed with preoperative DVT, with 2.5% for proximal DVT. The average age of patients with DVT is 48.7 ± 9.4 year, while that of patients without DVT is 45.0 ± 10.9 year. The mean time from injury to diagnosis of DVT was 6.8 ± 5.5 days, 43.1% cases occurring at day 2–4 after injury. Among 51 patients with DVT, 97 thrombi were found. Most patients had thrombi at injured extremity (72.5%), 19.6% at uninjured and 7.8% at bilateral extremities. There are significantly difference between patients with DVT and patients without DVT in term of prevalence of total protein (41.2% vs 24.4%, P = 0.008), albumin (54.9% vs 25.6%, P = 0.001), low lactate dehydrogenase (51.0% vs 30.3%, P = 0.002), lower serum sodium concentration (60.8% vs 29.9%, P = 0.001), lower RBC count (68.6% vs 37.0%, P = 0.001), lower HGB (51.0% vs 35.1%, P = 0.022), higher HCT (86.3% vs 35.1%, P = 0.022) and higher platelet count (37.3% vs 11.3%, P = 0.001). The multivariate analyses showed increasing age in year (OR 1.04, 95% CI; P = 0.020), delay to DUS (OR, 1.26; P = 0.001), abnormal LDH (OR, 1.45; P = 0.026), lower serum sodium concentration (OR, 2.56; P = 0.007), and higher HCT level (OR, 4.11; P = 0.003) were independently associated with DVT.

Conclusion

These findings could be beneficial in informed preventive of DVT and optimized management of hip fracture in specific group of young and mid-aged patients.

Prevalence of Preoperative Lower Extremity Deep Vein Thrombosis in Bilateral Calcaneal Fractures

There are no studies on epidemiologic characteristics of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), when specified at in patients with bilateral calcaneal fractures. This study aimed to address the preoperative DVT in bilateral calcaneal fractures. Between October 2014 and December 2018, adult patients presenting with bilateral calcaneal fractures and having preoperative Duplex ultrasound (DUS) of bilateral lower extremities for detection of DVT were included. Their medical data were collected, with regards to demographics, comorbidities, injury-related data and biomarkers. Baseline characteristics between patients with and without DVT were compared using bivariate tests. The further multivariate logistics regression analysis was conducted to identify independent factors associated with DVT. In total, 258 patients with bilateral calcaneal fractures were included, with 21 (8.1%) having preoperative DVT, diagnosed at 7.7 ± 4.2 days after injury. The prevalence rate of proximal DVT was 1.9% and of distal DVT was 6.2%. Thirty five thrombi were found, with 6 (17.1%) in proximal veins and 29 (82.9%) in distal veins. Nine patients had DVTs in multiple veins, and 2 patients had bilateral DVTs. The multivariate analyses showed history of allergy (odds ratio [OR] = 2.17), concurrent other fractures (OR = 4.53), prolonged time since injury (for each day, OR = 1.16), elevated plasma D-dimer level (≥1.73 vs <1.73 mg/L, OR = 3.74) and reduced albumin level (<34.2 g/L vs ≥34.2 g/L, OR = 2.92) were independent factors associated with DVT. Multiple factors were identified to be associated with DVT and greater consideration should be given to the use of pharmacologic prophylaxis in patients involving these factors, to reduce DVT occurrence.

Incidence of and risk factors for new-onset deep venous thrombosis after intertrochanteric fracture surgery

This study aimed to investigate the incidence of and risk factors for postoperative new-onset deep venous thrombosis (PNO-DVT) following intertrochanteric fracture surgery. Information on 1672 patients who underwent intertrochanteric fracture surgery at our hospital between January 2016 and December 2019 was extracted from a prospective hip fracture database. Demographic information, surgical data, and preoperative laboratory indices were analysed. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, univariate analyses and binary logistic regression analyses were performed. The incidences of postoperative deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and PNO-DVT in inpatients after intertrochanteric fracture surgery were 11.5% (202 of 1751 patients) and 7.4% (123 of 1672 patients), respectively. PNO-DVT accounted for 60.9% of postoperative DVT. Additionally, there were 20 cases of central thrombosis (16.3%), 82 cases of peripheral thrombosis (66.7%), and 21 cases of mixed thrombosis (17.1%). In addition, 82.1% of PNO-DVTs were diagnosed within 8 days after surgery. The multivariate analysis revealed that age > 70 years, duration of surgery (> 197 min), type of anaesthesia (general), and comorbidities (≥ 3) were independent risk factors for the development of PNO-DVT after intertrochanteric fracture surgery. This study demonstrated a high incidence of PNO-DVT in inpatients after intertrochanteric fracture surgery. Therefore, postoperative examination for DVT should be routinely conducted for patients.

Incidence of Symptomatic Venous Thromboembolism in Proximal Hamstring Repair: A Prospective Cohort Study

Background:

Surgical repair of proximal hamstring avulsion injuries can enable the return to preinjury levels of sporting function and minimize the risk of recurrence in both professional and recreational athletes. While venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a recognized complication of surgical repair, the incidence thereof is poorly reported in the literature.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

To report the incidence of symptomatic VTE after proximal hamstring avulsion repair and assess the efficacy of our thromboprophylaxis protocol. It was hypothesized that the incidence of VTE after proximal hamstring avulsion repair is low and that aspirin is an adequate choice of chemical prophylaxis.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

We performed a prospective cohort study of 2 groups of patients who underwent proximal hamstring avulsion (partial and complete) repair between 2000 to 2020 with different thromboprophylaxis protocols. No patients were routinely screened for VTEs, and VTE was investigated only if clinically indicated. Prospectively collected data included demographics, the mechanism and sport that caused injury, use of bracing, and clinical diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). The first cohort (n = 380) was given mechanical prophylaxis in the form of compression stockings for 6 weeks postoperatively. The second cohort (n = 600) was given compression stockings and aspirin 150 mg once daily routinely, or prophylactic low–molecular weight heparin in high-risk individuals, until the 6-week follow-up. Patients in both cohorts underwent early mobilization after surgery; a hinged knee brace locked at 60° to 120° was provided if the tendon repair was under significant tension. The surgical technique and rehabilitation protocol remained consistent throughout the study.

Results:

The overall incidence of symptomatic VTE was 0.51%. A total of 5 patients developed symptomatic VTEs (3 DVTs, 2 PEs) in the first cohort, and no patients developed symptomatic VTEs in the second cohort (1.32% vs 0%; P = .0048).

Conclusion:

The incidence of symptomatic VTE after proximal hamstring avulsion repairs was extremely low. A combination of aspirin, early mobilization despite bracing, compression stockings, and good hydration was an effective thromboprophylaxis strategy.

The incidence and risk factors of deep venous thrombosis in lower extremities following surgically treated femoral shaft fracture: a retrospective case-control study

BACKGROUND

There is still a lack of data on deep vein thrombosis (DVT) following surgically treated femoral shaft fracture (FSF). The goal of this study was to investigate the characteristics of postoperative DVT and the association between the occurrence of DVT and risk factors in patients undergoing surgical treatment for FSF.

METHODS

This observational retrospective case-control study reviewed 308 patients who received surgical treatment of FSF between January 2016 and October 2020 at a university hospital. Univariate analyses were performed on the data of demographics, comorbidities, laboratory biomarkers, and operation-related indexes. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, univariate analyses, and multivariate logistic regression analysis were employed to identify the independent risk factors associated with DVT.

RESULTS

In total, 308 patients with surgically treated FSF were included, among whom 48 (15.6%) patients had postoperative DVTs. The univariate analyses showing significant differences regarding DVT were American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification, diabetes mellitus, current smoking, aspartate transaminase (AST), and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) level among the 34 factors. According to the ROC results, the optimal cutoff values for intraoperative blood loss, D-dimer, and age were 350 ml, 1.08 μg/ml, and 35 years, respectively. The multivariable model demonstrated 4 significantly independent associations with postoperative DVT, including current smoking, intraoperative blood loss (> 550 ml), age (> 35 years), and D-dimer > 1.09 μg/ml.

CONCLUSION

These risk factors as screening tools contribute to risk stratification of the occurrence of thromboembolic events. In addition, our findings would help orthopedic surgeons make a cross-specialty decision and implement targeted precaution measures for patients with FSF.

Relationship Between the Incidence of Deep Vein Thrombosis During Hospitalization and the Energy of Injury in Tibial Plateau Fractures

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during hospitalization and the energy of injury in tibial plateau fractures (TPFs). One hundred and forty patients were enrolled between September 1, 2014, and October 1, 2017. According to Schatzker's classification, they were classified into the low-energy (type I-III) and high-energy (type IV-VI) groups. For DVT evaluation, duplex ultrasonography was performed in the lower extremities preoperatively and postoperatively. The location and changes of DVT were recorded. All patients underwent mechanical and chemical thromboprophylaxis. The incidence of DVT in TPFs was 36.43% and 46.43% preoperatively and postoperatively, respectively. The DVT incidence was 31.75% (20/63) in the low-energy group and 40.26% (31/77) in the high-energy group preoperatively, and 44.44% (28/63) in the low-energy group and 48.05% (37/77) in the high-energy group postoperatively. There was no significant difference between the 2 groups preoperatively (P = .298) and postoperatively (P = .785). The days between operation and discharge (P = .016), blood loss during surgery (P = .016), and preoperative d-dimer level (P = .02) showed differences between the 2 groups. Additionally, 29 new thrombi (14 [48.28%] in the high-energy group and 15 [51.72%] in the low-energy group) appeared and 16 preoperative thrombi disappeared postoperatively. Despite mechanical and chemical thromboprophylaxis, the DVT risk in patients with TPFs remains high. Although the DVT incidence is not significantly different between high-energy and low-energy injuries, the occurrence of DVT should be carefully monitored.

Prevalence and risk factors of preoperative deep venous thrombosis in closed patella fracture: a prospective cohort study

Background

The preoperative prevalence of deep venous thromboembolism (DVT) of patella fracture is not well established. The study aimed to investigate the preoperative prevalence, the associated risk factors, and the locations of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in patients with closed patella fracture.

Methods

Patients who sustained closed patella fracture between January 1, 2016, and April 1, 2019, were included. Blood analyses and ultrasonography of bilateral lower extremities were routinely performed. Data of demographics, comorbidities, mechanism of injury, fracture type, total hospital stay, time from injury to DVT, and laboratory indexes were prospectively collected and compared between groups with and with non-DVT. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the independent risk factors of DVT.

Results

Among the study cohort of 790 patients, 35 cases occurred in preoperative DVTs, indicating a prevalence of 4.4%, with 3.2% distal and 1.2% proximal DVT. Age ≥ 65 years old (OR, 3.0, 95% CI, 1.1–8.1), D-dimer > 0.5 mg/L (OR, 2.3, 95% CI, 1.1–4.8), and albumin < 35 g/L (OR, 2.5, 95% CI, 1.2–5.3) were identified to be risk factors of DVT in closed patella fracture. Among the DVTs, 30 cases (85.7%) occurred in the injured extremity, 3 cases (8.6%) in bilateral extremities, and 2 cases (5.7%) solely in the uninjured extremity.

Conclusion

The prevalence of preoperative DVT in closed patella fracture was 4.4%, with 3.2% for distal and 1.2% for proximal DVT. We recommend individualized risk stratification and early anticoagulation for patients with risk factors (age ≥ 65 years, D-dimer > 0.5 mg/L and albumin < 35g/L).

The outcome of isolated calf muscle vein thrombosis after open reduction and internal fixation for closed intra-articular distal femur fractures: a prospective cohort study

Background

To observe the outcome of isolated calf muscle vein thrombosis (ICMVT) undergoing open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for closed intra-articular distal femur fractures (DFFs) and to analyze related factors.

Methods

The study was designed as a prospective clinical cohort study at our hospital. From August 2018 to August 2020,a total of 140 patients with flesh ICMVT after ORIF for closed intra-articular DFFs were collected during hospitalization. After the administration of antithrombotic agents immediately after diagnosis, the location and prognosis of postoperative ICMVT were examined by Duplex ultrasonography (DUS) with a three-month follow-up. There were 29 males and 111 females with the average age of 70.16 ± 8.75 years old. Sonography was used to evaluate the resolution of muscular vein thrombosis at the time point of the third month postoperatively and the results were compared between the two time points. Multivariable analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between the resolution of ICMVT three months postoperatively and risk factors including age, Body Mass Index (BMI), gender, thrombosis length (> 5 / ≤5 cm), thrombosis diameter(> 0.6/≤0.6 cm), and thrombosis-related biochemistry indices.

Results

The postoperative ICMVTs was diagnosed at 5.47 ± 2.46 days after ORIF for closed intra-articular DFFs. At the follow up of 3 months,120 cases was tending to disappear with 88 cases(62.9 %) completely dissolved and 32 cases(22.9 %) partly dissolved. There existed 14 cases (10.0 %) without change on the size and 6 cases (4.2 %) with proximal propagation. Multivariate analysis revealed that thrombus diameter over 0.6 cm (odds ratio [OR], 8.900; 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 3.623–21.865), thrombus length over 5.0 cm (OR, 3.904; 95 % CI, 1.121–13.603), FIB over 3.0 g/L (OR, 3.627; 95 % CI, 1.356–9.689), and D-dimer over 1.0 mg/L (OR, 2.602; 95 % CI, 1.075–6.296) were four independent risk factors of non-completely dissolved ICMVTs.

Conclusions

85.8 % of ICMVT was tending to disappear at the third months after ORIF for closed intra-articular DFFs. Thrombus diameter, thrombus length, FIB, and D-dimer were four independent risk factors of non-completely dissolved ICMVTs. The Thrombus diameter has a significant effect on the natural course of ICMVTs, especially with diameter larger than 0.6 cm.

Study on the Risk Factors of Preoperative Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) in Patients With Lower Extremity Fracture

Objective:

The objective of this work is to discuss and analyze the related factors of lower extremity fracture complicated by preoperative deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Methods:

A total of 11,891 patients with closed fractures of lower extremities were selected. By analyzing each patient’s gender, age, presence or absence of diabetes and hypertension, preoperative plasma D-dimer level, and color Doppler ultrasound of the lower extremity vein, the pertinent factors of the patients with lower extremity fractures complicated by preoperative DVT were analyzed.

Results:

A total of 578 with preoperative DVT were detected, displaying a total incidence of 4.86%. All patients were categorized into either the DVT group or non-DVT group. The results demonstrate that there were statistically significant differences between the 2 groups in age, the presence of diabetes and hypertension, the fracture site, and the preoperative plasma D-dimer level (P < 0.05). Logistic multivariate analysis revealed that age, the presence of diabetes, and the preoperative plasma D-dimer level of patients were independent risk factors for lower extremity fracture complicated by DVT.

Conclusion:

Age, the presence of diabetes, the fracture site, and increased D-dimer levels were found to be potential risk factors and indicators for preoperative DVT in patients with lower extremity fractures. In addition, the preoperative plasma D-dimer level has certain guiding significance for the prediction of venous thrombosis after lower extremity fracture, which is conducive to the early prediction and diagnosis of DVT, but it often must be followed with good clinic acumen and examinations.

Incidence and locations of preoperative deep venous thrombosis (DVT) of lower extremity following tibial plateau fractures: a prospective cohort study

Background

There is still lack of data on deep vein thrombosis (DVT) following bone trauma. This study aimed to determine the epidemiologic characteristics of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) of lower extremities following tibial plateau fractures.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data on patients presenting with tibial plateau fractures between October 2014 and December 2018 was conducted. Duplex ultrasonography (DUS) was routinely used to screen for preoperative DVT of bilateral lower extremities. Data on demographics, comorbidities, injury-related data, and laboratory biomarkers at admission were collected. Univariate analyses and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify the independent risk factors associated with DVT.

Results

A total of 1179 patients were included, among whom 192 (16.3%) had a preoperative DVT, with incidence rate of 1.0% for proximal and 15.3% for distal DVT. The average interval between fracture occurrence and diagnosis of DVT was 3.5 days (median, 2 days), ranging from 0 to 19 days. DVT involved the injured extremity in 166 (86.4%) patients, both the injured and uninjured extremities in 14 patients (7.3%) and only the uninjured extremity in 12 patients (6.3%). Six risk factors were identified to be associated with DVT, including gender (male vs female), hypertension, open fracture, alkaline phosphatase > 100 u/L, sodium concentration < 135 mmol/L, and D-dimer > 0.5 mg/L.

Conclusion

These epidemiologic data are conducive to the individualized assessment, risk stratification, and development of targeted prevention programs.

Incidence and risk factors for deep venous thrombosis of lower extremity after surgical treatment of isolated patella fractures

Background

Limited information exists on the incidence of postoperative deep venous thromboembolism (DVT) in patients with isolated patella fractures. The objective of this study was to investigate the postoperative incidence and locations of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) of the lower extremity in patients who underwent isolated patella fractures and identify the associated risk factors.

Methods

Medical data of 716 hospitalized patients was collected. The patients had acute isolated patella fractures and were admitted at the 3rd Hospital of Hebei Medical University between January 1, 2016, and February 31, 2019. All patients met the inclusion criteria. Medical data was collected using the inpatient record system, which included the patient demographics, patient’s bad hobbies, comorbidities, past medical history, fracture and surgery-related factors, hematological biomarkers, total hospital stay, and preoperative stay. Doppler examination was conducted for the diagnosis of DVT. Univariate analyses and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify the independent risk factors.

Results

Among the 716 patients, DVT was confirmed in 29 cases, indicating an incidence of 4.1%. DVT involved bilateral limbs (injured and uninjured) in one patient (3.4%). DVT involved superficial femoral common vein in 1 case (3.4%), popliteal vein in 6 cases (20.7%), posterior tibial vein in 11 cases (37.9%), and peroneal vein in 11 cases (37.9%). The median of the interval between surgery and diagnosis of DVT was 4.0 days (range, 1.0-8.0 days). Six variables were identified to be independent risk factors for DVT which included age category (> 65 years old), OR, 4.44 (1.34-14.71); arrhythmia, OR, 4.41 (1.20-16.15); intra-operative blood loss, OR, 1.01 (1.00-1.02); preoperative stay (delay of each day), OR, 1.43 (1.15-1.78); surgical duration, OR, 1.04 (1.03-1.06); LDL-C (> 3.37 mmol/L), OR, 2.98 (1.14-7.76).

Conclusion

Incidence of postoperative DVT in patients with isolated patella fractures is substantial. More attentions should be paid on postoperative DVT prophylaxis in patients with isolated patella fractures. Identification of associated risk factors can help clinicians recognize the risk population, assess the risk of DVT, and develop personalized prophylaxis strategies.

Post-operative deep vein thrombosis in patients over sixty years of age diagnosed with closed distal femur fractures undergoing open reduction internal fixation

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

New-onset deep vein thrombosis (DVT) reportedly affects prognosis and surgical outcomes of elderly patients. However, its effect on distal femur fractures (DFFs) remains unclear. We aimed to address the epidemiological characteristics and the associated predictors for post-operative DVT in patients with closed DFFs over age 60 years old.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We designed a prospective cohort trial at our hospital between October 2018 and June 2020 and recruited consecutive 140 patients over age 60 years diagnosed with closed DFFs. We examined location and prognosis of postoperative DVT and then conducted a three month follow-up. We used Duplex ultrasonography (DUS) to diagnose DVT in all patients and then classified the subjects into DVT and non-DVT groups. We further classified DVTs into proximal, distal, and mixed thromboses and then performed Whitney U test or t test, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, Chi-square test, and multiple logistic regression analysis to confirm the adjusted factors of post-operative DVT.

RESULTS

We found a 35% (n = 49) overall incidence of post-operative DVTs, which occurred 5.7 days following open reduction internal fixation (ORIF). Among patients with post-operative DVTs, 53.1% (n = 26) and 10.2% (n = 5) were distal and proximal thromboses, respectively. Additionally, peroneal veins were the most common DVT sites (71.4%, n = 35). Multivariate analysis revealed that venous thrombosis at admission (odds ratio [OR], 4.619; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.072-10.299; P = 0.000), operation duration over 195 minutes (OR, 3.289; 95% CI, 1.155-9.370; P = 0.026), intra-operative blood loss over 325 mL (OR, 2.538; 95% CI, 1.047-6.155; P = 0.039) were the three independent risk factors of post-operative DVT. Unified antithrombotic agents after diagnosis showed that 16.3% (n = 8) of DVTs were completely recanalized, 12.6 days after first diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate a strong association between venous thrombosis at admission, the longer operation duration, and considerable intra-operative blood loss with high risk of post-operative DVTs in patients over age 60 years with closed DFFs. Preventive approaches for postoperative DVTs should seek to shorten operation duration and reduce intra-operative blood loss.

Incidence and locations of deep venous thrombosis of the lower extremity following surgeries of tibial plateau fractures: a prospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the incidence of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) of the lower extremities following surgeries of tibial plateau fractures.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of the prospectively collected data on patients undergoing surgeries of tibial plateau fractures between October 2014 and December 2018 was conducted. Duplex ultrasonography (DUS) was used to screen for postoperative DVT of the bilateral lower extremities. Data on demographics, comorbidities, injury, surgery, and laboratory biomarkers at admission were collected. Univariate analyses and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify the independent risk factors associated with DVT.

RESULTS

Among 987 patients included, 46 (4.7%) had postoperative DVT, with incidence rate of 1.0% for proximal and 3.7% for distal DVT. The average interval between operation and DVT was 8.3 days (median, 5.8 days), ranging from 2 to 42 days. DVT involved the injured extremity in 39 (84.8%) patients, both the injured and uninjured extremity in 2 patients (4.3%) and only the uninjured extremity in 5 patients (10.9%). Five risk factors were identified to be associated with postoperative DVT, including age (≥ 41 vs < 41 years) (OR 3.08; 95% CI 1.43-6.61; p = 0.004), anesthesia (general vs regional) (OR 2.08; 95% CI 1.12-3.85; p = 0.021), hyponatremia (OR 2.21; 95% CI 1.21-4.06; p = 0.010), prolonged surgical time (OR 1.04; 95% CI 1.01-1.07; p = 0.017) and elevated D-dimer level (OR 2.79; 95% CI 1.34-4.83; p = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

These epidemiologic data may be helpful in individualized assessment, risk stratification, and development of targeted prevention programs.

Analysis of perioperative risk factors for deep vein thrombosis in patients with femoral and pelvic fractures

Objective

Clinical characteristics, anticoagulant protocols, and risk factors of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients with femoral and pelvic fractures were analyzed throughout the perioperative period to provide references for early identification and optimization of risk factors.

Methods

This was a retrospective study. A total of 569 patients undergoing surgery of femoral and pelvic fractures from May 2018 to December 2019 were included.

The clinical data including general conditions, trauma, surgery, anticoagulant protocols, and laboratory indexes were collected. According to the results of deep vein Doppler ultrasonography of the lower extremities, the patients were divided into non-DVT group and DVT group. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to identify the independent risk factors of preoperative and postoperative DVT.

Results

The incidence of DVT was 40.25% and preoperative DVT was 26.71%, which was higher than the incidence of postoperative DVT of 17.22%. Most of them were thrombus on the affected side (60.26%) and distal thrombus (81.66%). The average time of DVT formation was 6.55 ± 0.47 days after trauma and 6.67 ± 0.48 days after surgery. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), anemia, hypoproteinemia, non-anticoagulation before surgery, delayed anticoagulation after trauma and admission, high-energy trauma, multiple injuries, drinking history, and advanced age were independent risk factors for perioperative DVT. The increased level of fibrinogen degradation products was an independent risk factor for preoperative DVT. These risk factors were identified to be independently associated with postoperative DVT, including intraoperative blood transfusion, postoperative blood transfusion, pulmonary infection, preoperative non-anticoagulation, postoperative delayed anticoagulation, preoperative waiting time > 7 days, operative time > 2 h, c-reactive protein, fibrinogen level, platelet count 1 day after surgery, c-reactive protein, fibrinogen, and hemoglobin levels 3 days after surgery, comminuted fracture.

Conclusions

At present, anticoagulation and other DVT prevention and treatment programs have not changed the current situation that the incidence of DVT is still high. Through the analysis of the risk factors of DVT throughout the perioperative period, optimizing the perioperative blood transfusion, preoperative lung disease, hypoproteinemia, anemia, inflammation, etc., and surgery as soon as possible after trauma may further reduce its incidence.

Age over 65 years and high levels of C-reactive protein are associated with the risk of preoperative deep vein thrombosis following closed distal femur fractures: a prospective cohort study

Background

In this study, we investigated the epidemiological characteristics and predictors of preoperative new-onset deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in adult patients with closed distal femur fractures (DFFs).

Methods

The study was designed as a prospective cohort trial at the Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University. From October 2018 to June 2020, a total of 160 patients with closed DFFs were enrolled to assess the location and prognosis of preoperative DVT. The patients were followed up for 2 months. Duplex ultrasonography (DUS) was used to diagnose patients with DVT. The patients were divided into two groups (DVT group and non-DVT group). The DVT was then classified into proximal, distal, and mixed thromboses. The Mann-Whitney U test or t test, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses, univariate Chi-square analyses, and multiple logistic regression analyses were used to analyze the adjusted predictors of DVT.

Results

The overall incidence of preoperative DVTs was 52.5% (n = 84), which was diagnosed at a mean period of 3.1 days after injury. Among patients diagnosed with DVTs, 50.0% (n = 42) had distal thrombosis while 47.6% (n = 40) had mixed thrombosis. The calf muscle veins were the most common sites of DVTs (90.5%, n = 76). Of note, 45.2% (n = 38) of diagnosed DVTs were completely recanalized at a mean period of 12.0 days after the initial (first) diagnosis. Multivariate analysis revealed that age of ≥ 65 years of age (odds ratio [OR], 4.390; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.727–11.155; p = 0.002), C-reactive protein (CRP) levels exceeding 11 mg/L (OR 4.158; 95% CI 1.808–11.289; p = 0.001), platelet (PLT) levels over 217 × 109/L (OR, 2.55; 95% CI 1.07–6.07; p = 0.035), D-dimer levels over 1.0 mg/L (OR 3.496; 95% CI 1.483–8.237; p = 0.004), and an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score of III-V (OR 2.753; 95% CI 1.216–6.729; p = 0.026) were the independent risk factors of preoperative DVT.

Conclusions

High levels of CRP, PLT, D-dimer, ASA, and ≥ 65 years of age increase the risk of preoperative DVTs in adult patients with closed DFFs. Thus, the prediction of preoperative DVTs can significantly be improved by identifying older patients over the age of 65, and establishing the biochemical cut-off values of CRP, PLT, ASA, and D-dimer.

Trial registration

No. 2018-026-1, 24 October 2018, prospectively registered.

This trial was registered prospectively on 24 October 2018 before the first participant was enrolled. This study protocol conformed to the Declaration of Helsinki and approved by the Institutional Review Board. The ethics committee approved the study on the factors of prognosis for patients with fractures. Data used in this study were obtained from the patients who underwent orthopedic surgery between October 2018 and June 2020.

Relationship between the inflammation/immune indexes and deep venous thrombosis (DVT) incidence rate following tibial plateau fractures

Objective

To determine the relationship between inflammation/immune-based indexes and deep venous thrombosis (DVT) incidence rate following tibial plateau fractures

Methods

Retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected data on patients undergoing surgeries of tibial plateau fractures between October 2014 and December 2018 was performed. Duplex ultrasonography (DUS) was routinely used to screen for preoperative DVT of bilateral lower extremities. Data on biomarkers (neutrophil, lymphocyte, monocyte, and platelet counts) at admission were collected, based on which neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte/lymphocyte (MLR), and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII, neutrophil* platelet/lymphocyte) were calculated. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) was used to determine the optimal cutoff value for each variable. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the independent relationship of each biomarker or index with DVT, after adjustment for demographics, co-morbidities, and injury-related variables.

Results

Among 1179 patients included, 16.3% (192/1179) of them had a preoperative DVT. Four factors were identified to be significantly associated with DVT, including open fracture, increased D-dimer level. Among the biomarkers and indexes, only platelet and neutrophil were identified to be independently associated with DVT, and the significance remained after exclusion of open fracture. The other independent variables were elevated D-dimer level (> 0.55 mg/L), male gender, and hypertension in the sensitivity analysis with open fractures excluded.

Conclusion

These identified factors are conducive to the initial screening for patients at risk of DVT, individualized risk assessment, risk stratification, and accordingly, development of targeted prevention programs.

Thromboprophylaxis in Intramedullary Limb Lengthening Surgery

Aim

The use of intramedullary lengthening devices is becoming increasingly popular. There are limited data regarding the incidence of venous thromboembolism following intramedullary lengthening surgery and no reports or guidance for current practice on use of thromboprophylaxis. Following a case of post-operative deep vein thrombosis in our institution, we felt that it is important to assess best practice. We conducted a national survey to collect data that would describe current practice and help develop consensus for treatment.

Materials and methods

We identified surgeons across the UK that perform adult intramedullary limb lengthening through the British Limb Reconstruction Society membership and a Precise Users database. Surgeons were contacted and asked to respond to an online survey. Responses to thromboprophylaxis regimes employed in their practice and cases of venous thromboembolism were collated.

Results

24 out of 54 surgeons identified responded with a total of 454 cases of adult intramedullary lengthening (352 femoral and 102 tibial nails) performed over a five year period (January 2015–January 2020). Only one case of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) following femoral lengthening was reported. There is wide variability in practice both in terms of thromboprophylaxis risk assessment, choice of medications and duration of treatment. The vast majority of surgeons (85%) felt that there was insufficient evidence available to guide their practice.

Conclusions

Intramedullary lengthening is a surgical treatment growing in popularity. There are limited data available to guide decision-making regarding aspects of treatment such as thromboprophylaxis. This is reflected in the wide variation in practice reported in this study. There are both a need and a desire to gather data that will allow us to come to a consensus and to guide safe practice.

Clinical significance

Venous thromboembolism is a potential complication of lower limb lengthening surgery. We report on national incidence and current practices of thromboprophylaxis to allow for informed decision-making and help develop consensus for best practice.

How to cite this article

Iliadis AD, Timms A, Fugazzotto S, et al. Thromboprophylaxis in Intramedullary Limb Lengthening Surgery. Strategies Trauma Limb Reconstr 2020;15(3):151-156.

Upper-Extremity Deep Venous Thrombosis following a Fracture of the Proximal Humerus: An Orthopaedic Case Report

Deep venous thrombosis of the lower extremities following orthopaedic surgery is well-documented. Though less common than its lower extremity counterpart, upper extremity deep venous thrombosis (UEDVT) has been documented in the literature as well, largely in the context of arthroscopic shoulder surgery. However, there is a paucity of literature documenting UEDVT following surgical fixation of upper extremity fractures, specifically fractures involving the proximal humerus. We present a case of UEDVT following a fracture to the proximal humerus and subsequent surgery. Though UEDVT is considered a rare complication following this type of surgery based on a lack of documentation within the literature, we believe a high-index of suspicion is required to prevent potentially life-threatening sequelae, such as pulmonary embolism (PE) and post-thrombotic syndrome.

Femoral Vein Thrombus Diagnosed during Ultrasound-guided Femoral Nerve Catheter Placement

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

A Retrospective cohort study on the risk factors of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) for patients with traumatic fracture at Honghui Hospital

OBJECTIVE

To explore the risk factors of perioperative deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients with traumatic fracture after orthopaedic surgery and their potential diagnostic values in clinical.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Clinical Laboratory of Honghui Hospital, Xi'an JiaoTong University College of Medicine, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted with surgically treated fracture patients in Honghui Hospital from 1 May 2016 to 31 February 2017. χ² test, independent sample t test and regression analysis were applied to examine the correlation between perioperative DVT and the factors of preoperative time, fracture sites, D-dimer value and chronic diseases (hypertension, diabetes and coronary disease).

RESULTS

462 patients were enrolled for analysis. The preoperative time of patients with DVT was significantly longer than that of non-DVT patients (7.14±5.51 vs 5.45±3.75) (P<0.01). χ² test showed the significant differences in the rate of DVT among patients with different fracture sites (P<0.01). By the receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis, the cut-off value of preoperative D-dimer and postoperative D-dimer in diagnosing perioperative DVT was 4.01 µg/mL and 5.03 µg/mL, respectively. Area under the curve was 0.593 (95% CI 0.533 to 0.652) and 0.728 (95% CI 0.672 to 0.780), respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of preoperative D-dimer for DVT diagnosis were 71.30% and 44.83%, and as for postoperative D-dimer were 63.90% and 70.51%.

CONCLUSIONS

Fracture site was correlated to the incidence of DVT; prolonged preoperative time and increased D-dimer value were independent risk factors for DVT in patients with lower extremity traumatic fractures.