Reconsidering the Role of Routine Anticoagulation for Venous Thromboembolism Prevention in Plastic Surgery

Predicting the risk of postoperative venous thromboembolism in rhinoplasty patients: a cohort study

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a rare complication following rhinoplasty surgery, with an occurrence rate generally estimated to be between 0.5% and 1%. In contrast, the occurrence rate of VTE in orthopedic surgeries, particularly in lower limb fracture surgeries, can reach as high as 10% or more. This significant difference highlights the varying risks associated with different surgical procedures and underscores the importance of identifying risk factors specific to rhinoplasty. Despite its relatively low incidence, the potential for VTE in rhinoplasty patients necessitates a thorough analysis of risk factors to enhance patient safety and guide clinical practice. This study aims to analyze the risk factors for postoperative VTE in rhinoplasty patients and develop a predictive model to assist clinicians in identifying at-risk individuals.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 1100 rhinoplasty patients admitted to a cosmetic hospital from January 2016 to January 2022. Patients were divided into Non-VTE group (1012 cases) and VTE group (88 cases) based on the occurrence of VTE within one month postoperatively. General patient information was collected and subjected to univariate analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors for postoperative VTE in rhinoplasty patients and establish a predictive model. Internal validation was performed using bootstrapping technique to assess the accuracy and predictive performance of the model.

RESULTS

Univariate analysis showed that the proportions of IBD, Myocardial infarction, Previous VTE, PICC/central line, Rib graft, and History of nasal surgery were significantly higher in the VTE group compared to the Non-VTE group (all P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified IBD, Myocardial infarction, Previous VTE, Rib graft, and History of nasal surgery as independent risk factors for VTE (P < 0.05). The constructed predictive nomogram model demonstrated good calibration and predictive accuracy, with an area under the ROC curve of 0.845, indicating excellent discrimination and clinical predictive performance.

CONCLUSION

IBD, Myocardial infarction, Previous VTE, Rib graft, and History of nasal surgery are independent risk factors for postoperative VTE in rhinoplasty patients. The predictive model effectively assesses the risk of VTE in patients, providing important guidance for clinical decision-making.

Clinical Evaluation of 310 Abdominoplasties and Measurement of Scar Level

BACKGROUND

Most published studies on abdominoplasty focus on methods to reduce the risk of seromas. These methods include limited dissection (lipoabdominoplasty), quilting sutures, and preservation of the Scarpa fascia. Quantitative evaluation of the aesthetic result has been lacking.

METHODS

A retrospective study was undertaken of all patients undergoing abdominoplasty in the author's practice from 2016 to 2022. A full abdominoplasty was performed, usually with liposuction (87%). All patients were treated under total intravenous anesthesia without paralysis or prone positioning. A single closed suction drain was removed 3 or 4 days after surgery. All procedures were performed as outpatients. Ultrasound surveillance was used to detect any deep venous thromboses. No patient received chemoprophylaxis. The operating table was flexed, often to 90°. Deep fascial anchoring sutures were used to attach the Scarpa fascia of the flap to the deep muscle fascia. Measurements of the scar level were made at intervals after surgery up to 1 year.

RESULTS

Three hundred ten patients were evaluated, including 300 women. The mean follow-up time was 1 year. The overall complication rate, which included minor scar deformities, was 35.8%. Five deep venous thromboses were detected. There were no hematomas. Fifteen patients (4.8%) developed seromas that were successfully treated by aspiration. The mean vertical scar level 1 month after surgery was 9.9 cm (range, 6.1-12.9 cm). There was no significant change in scar level at subsequent follow-up times up to 1 year. By comparison, the scar level in published studies ranged from 8.6 to 14.1 cm.

DISCUSSION

Avoidance of electrodissection reduces tissue trauma that causes seromas. Flexed patient positioning during surgery and deep fascial anchoring sutures are effective in keeping the scar low. By avoiding chemoprophylaxis, hematomas can be avoided. Limiting the dissection (lipoabdominoplasty), preserving the Scarpa fascia, and adding quilting (progressive tension) sutures are unnecessary.

CONCLUSIONS

Total intravenous anesthesia offers important safety advantages. Avoiding electrodissection is effective in keeping seroma rates at a tolerable level (5%), and the scar low and more easily concealed. Alternative methods present disadvantages that may contribute to a suboptimal aesthetic result and require additional operating time.

A Review of Venous Thromboembolism Risk Assessment and Prophylaxis in Plastic Surgery

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism is a significant cause of postoperative death and morbidity. While prophylactic and treatment regimens exist, they usually come with some risk of clinically relevant bleeding and, thus, must be considered carefully for each individual patient.

METHODS

This special topic article represents a review of current evidence regarding venous thromboembolism risk, biology, and prevention in plastic surgery patients. The specific types and duration of available prophylaxis are also reviewed. The balance of venous thromboembolism risk must be weighed against the risk of hemorrhage.

RESULTS

Though alternatives exist, the most validated risk assessment tool is the 2005 modification of the Caprini Risk Assessment Model. Controversies remain regarding recommendations for outpatient and low risk cosmetic patients. The authors additionally make recommendations for high-risk patients regarding the use of tranexamic acid, estrogen therapy, anesthesia, and prophylaxis regimens.

CONCLUSION

Our profession has made great strides in understanding the science behind venous thromboembolism, risk stratification for patients, and prophylactic regimens; yet, continued studies and definitive data are needed.