Prevention of venous thrombosis in patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage

Comparative study of venous thromboembolic prophylaxis strategies in hemorrhagic stroke: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolic events, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), are frequent complications in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Various prophylactic strategies have been employed to mitigate this risk, such as heparin, intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC), and graduated compression stockings (GCS). The optimal thromboembolic prophylaxis approach remains uncertain due to the lack of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing all interventions.

AIMS

We conducted a network meta-analysis and meta-analysis to systematically review and synthesize evidence from RCTs and non-randomized studies on the efficacy and safety of thromboembolic prophylaxis strategies in hospitalized ICH patients.

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS

Our study followed a registered protocol (PROSPERO CRD42023489217) and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines incorporating the extension for network meta-analyses. Search for eligible studies was performed up to December 2023. We considered the occurrence of DVT, PE, hematoma expansion (HE), and all-cause mortality as outcome measures. A total of 16 studies, including 7 RCTs and 9 non-randomized studies, were included in the analysis. Network meta-analysis revealed that IPC demonstrated the highest efficacy in reducing DVT incidence (odds ratios (OR) 0.30, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.08-1.16), particularly considering only RCTs (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.16-0.67). GCS showed the highest safety profile for HE (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.14-3.13), but without efficacy. Chemoprophylaxis did not reduce the risk of PE events (OR 1.10, 95% CI 0.17-7.19) with a higher occurrence of HE (OR 1.33, 95% CI 0.60-2.96), but the differences were not significant.

CONCLUSION

Our study supports the use of IPC as the primary thromboembolic prophylaxis measure in ICH patients. Further research, including head-to-head RCTs, is needed to strengthen the evidence base and optimize clinical decision-making for thromboembolic prophylaxis in this vulnerable patient population.

Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis After Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Review

BACKGROUND

Patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) are at high risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE). The administration of mechanical and pharmacological VTE prophylaxis after sICH is important but challenging. The safety and efficacy of the optimal anticoagulant dose, timing, and type of VTE chemoprophylaxis in cases of sICH are still unclear, and clinicians are concerned that it may lead to cerebral hematoma expansion, which is associated with poor prognosis. Through this literature review, we aim to summarize the latest guidelines, recommendations, and clinical research progress to support evidence-based treatment strategies.

REVIEW SUMMARY

It has been proven that intermittent pneumatic compression can effectively reduce the risk of VTE and should be used at the time of hospital admission, whereas gradient compression stockings or lack of prophylaxis in sICH cases are not recommended by current guidelines. Studies regarding pharmacological VTE prophylaxis in patients with ICH were reviewed and summarized. Prophylactic anticoagulation for VTE in patients with ICH seems to be safe and was not associated with cerebral hematoma expansion. Meanwhile, the prophylactic efficacy of anticoagulation for pulmonary embolism seems to be more obvious than that of deep vein thrombosis in patients with ICH.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinicians should pay attention to the prevention and management of VTE after sICH. Intermittent pneumatic compression should be applied to patients with sICH on the day of hospital admission. After documentation of bleeding cessation, early initiation of pharmacological VTE prophylaxis (24 h to 48 h from sICH onset) seems to be safe and effective in pulmonary embolism prophylaxis.

Prevention of venous thromboembolism in acute spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage: A survey of opinion

INTRODUCTION

People immobilized following acute spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) are at risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) but the role of short-term prophylactic anticoagulation remains uncertain. We surveyed UK clinical practice and opinion regarding preventing VTE after ICH.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

An online survey was sent to stroke healthcare professionals within the United Kingdom and Ireland via a professional society (British and Irish Association of Stroke Physicians (BIASP)).

RESULTS

One hundred and twenty-three staff members responded to the survey, of whom 80% were consultant stroke physicians. All responders except one considered the issue to be important or extremely important, but only 5 (4%) were "extremely certain" and 51 (41%) "fairly certain" regarding the optimal treatment approach. Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) devices alone were the most used method (in 60%) followed by IPC devices and switching to low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) (in 30%). We identified high levels of uncertainty regarding the role of anticoagulation, and its optimal timing; uncertainty was greater in lobar compared to deep ICH. Most respondents (93%) consider a randomised controlled trial investigating the role of pharmacological VTE prophylaxis after acute ICH as important and would consider participation.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The optimal method for the prevention of VTE in non-traumatic ICH patients remains an area of clinical uncertainty. Clinical trials assessing short-term anticoagulation in patients after acute ICH would be beneficial in providing evidence to resolve this clinical dilemma.

Cardiovascular Events After Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Cardiovascular events after primary intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) have emerged as a leading cause of poor functional outcomes and mortality during the long-term recovery after an ICH. These events encompass arterial ischemic events such as ischemic stroke and myocardial infarction, arterial hemorrhagic events that include recurrent ICH, and venous thrombotic events such as venous thromboembolism. The purpose of this review is to summarize the cardiovascular complications after ICH, epidemiology and associated risk factors, and their impact on ICH outcomes. Additionally, we will highlight possible pathophysiological mechanisms to explain the short- and long-term increased risks of ischemic and hemorrhagic events after ICH. Finally, we will highlight potential secondary stroke and venous thrombotic prevention strategies often not considered after ICH, balanced against the risk of ICH recurrence.

Can Intermittent Pneumatic Compression Reduce the Incidence of Venous Thrombosis in Critically Ill Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication for critically ill patients. Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) is recommended for patients with high risk of bleeding. We aim to evaluate the effectiveness of IPC for thromboprophylaxis in critically ill patients. We searched PubMed, Embase, and ClinicalTrials for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies that evaluated IPC in critically ill patients. RevMan 5.3 software was used for the meta-analysis. A total of 10 studies were included. The IPC group significantly reduced the VTE incidence compared with no thromboprophylaxis group (risk ratio [RR]: 0.35, confidence interval [CI]: 0.18-0.68, P = .002) and the IPC group also showed lower VTE incidence than the graduated compression stockings (GCS) group (RR: 0.47, CI: 0.24-0.91, P = .03). There were no significant differences between using IPC and low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) for VTE incidence (RR: 1.26, CI: 0.72-2.22, P = .41), but LMWH showed significantly more bleeding events. Intermittent pneumatic compression as an adjunctive treatment did not further reduce VTE incidence (RR: 0.55, CI: 0.24-1.27, P = .16). Intermittent pneumatic compression can reduce the incidence of VTE for critically ill patients, which is better than GCS and similar to LMWH, but it has no significant advantage as an adjunct therapy for thromboprophylaxis.

Chinese expert consensus on diagnosis and treatment of trauma-induced hypercoagulopathy

Trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC) is caused by post-traumatic tissue injury and manifests as hypercoagulability that leads to thromboembolism or hypocoagulability that leads to uncontrollable massive hemorrhage. Previous studies on TIC have mainly focused on hemorrhagic coagulopathy caused by the hypocoagulable phenotype of TIC, while recent studies have found that trauma-induced hypercoagulopathy can occur in as many as 22.2-85.1% of trauma patients, in whom it can increase the risk of thrombotic events and mortality by 2- to 4-fold. Therefore, the Chinese People's Liberation Army Professional Committee of Critical Care Medicine and the Chinese Society of Thrombosis, Hemostasis and Critical Care, Chinese Medicine Education Association jointly formulated this Chinese Expert Consensus comprising 15 recommendations for the definition, pathophysiological mechanism, assessment, prevention, and treatment of trauma-induced hypercoagulopathy.

Challenging anticoagulation cases: A case of pulmonary embolism shortly after spontaneous brain bleeding

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication after intracranial hemorrhage (ICH); the incidence has been reported to vary between 18% to 50% for deep vein thrombosis and between 0.5% to 5% for pulmonary embolism (PE). According to current clinical practice guidelines, patients with acute VTE should receive anticoagulant treatment for at least 3 months in the absence of contraindications. Anticoagulant treatment reduces mortality, prevents early recurrences and improves long-term outcome in patients with acute VTE. However, recent ICH is an absolute contraindication for anticoagulant treatment due to the potential increased risk of hematoma expansion or recurrent ICH. Hematoma expansion occurs in approximately a third of patients within 24 h following the diagnosis of a spontaneous ICH. The risk for recurrent ICH depends on patients' features as well as on the feature of index ICH. Limited evidence is available on the risks of therapeutic anticoagulation started shortly after ICH. Expert consensus around the introduction of therapeutic anticoagulation suggests delaying therapeutic anticoagulation for at least 2 weeks after spontaneous ICH, until the risk re-bleeding becomes acceptable. Vena cava filters should be inserted to reduce the risk for (non) fatal PE until therapeutic anticoagulation can be started; antithrombotic prophylaxis should be started as soon as possible to avoid recurrent VTE after vena cava filter insertion. For patients presenting PE with hemodynamic compromise, percutaneous embolectomy should be considered. Most patients will be able to receive anticoagulant treatment within 4 weeks following spontaneous ICH; direct oral anticoagulants are probably the treatment of choice for those ICH patients tolerating anticoagulant treatment.

Hemorrhagic stroke

Hemorrhagic stroke comprises about 20% of all strokes, with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) being the most common type. Frequency of ICH is increased where hypertension is untreated. ICH in particularly has a disproportionately high risk of early mortality and long-term disability. Until recently, there has been a paucity of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to provide evidence for the efficacy of various commonly considered interventions in ICH, including acute blood pressure management, coagulopathy reversal, and surgical hematoma evacuation. Evidence-based guidelines do exist for ICH and these form the basis for a framework of care. Current approaches emphasize control of extremely high blood pressure in the acute phase, rapid reversal of vitamin K antagonists, and surgical evacuation of cerebellar hemorrhage. Lingering questions, many of which are the topic of ongoing clinical research, include optimizing individual blood pressure targets, reversal strategies for newer anticoagulant medications, and the role of minimally invasive surgery. Risk stratification models exist, which derive from findings on clinical exam and neuroimaging, but care should be taken to avoid a self-fulfilling prophecy of poor outcome from limiting treatment due to a presumed poor prognosis. Cerebral venous thrombosis is an additional subtype of hemorrhagic stroke that has a unique set of causes, natural history, and treatment and is discussed as well.

Ultra-Early Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) Prophylaxis in Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage (sICH)

OBJECTIVE

To determine if ultra-early (<24 h) venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis was associated with hematoma growth in spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).

BACKGROUND

Patients with ICH have a high risk of VTE. Pharmacological prophylaxis such as unfractionated heparin (UFH) have been demonstrated to reduce VTE. However, published datasets exclude patients with recent ICH out of concern for hematoma enlargement. American Heart/Stroke Association guidelines recommend UFH 1-4 days after hematoma stabilization while the European Stroke Organization has no recommendations on when to begin UFH. Our institutional practice is to obtain stability CT scans at 6 to 24 h and to begin UFH following documented clinical and radiologic stability. We examined the impact of this practice on hematoma expansion.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort analysis of consecutive ICH patients treated at a single tertiary academic referral center in the US. Demographic and clinical characteristics were abstracted. ICH volume was measured via 3D volumetrics for a CT head done on admission, follow-up stability, and prior to discharge. The primary outcome was analyzed as ≥3 mL hematoma enlargement. Secondary outcomes include hematoma expansion of ≥6mL and ≥ 33%, length of stay (LOS), discharge disposition and mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 163 ICH patients were analyzed. There were 58 (35.6%) patients in the ultra-early UFH group and UFH was initiated on average at 13.8 h from initial scan. There were 105 (64.6%) patients in the standard group who initiated UFH at an average of 46.6 h. The primary outcome of hematoma enlargement ≥3 mL was observed in 2/58(3.4%) patients with ultra-early initiation of UFH and in 7/105(6.7%) in the standard group (p=0.49). Secondary outcomes were not significant including hematoma expansion in the ultra-early group ≥ 6 mL 3/58 (5.2%) and ≥33% 7/58 (12.1%) (p=0.91, 0.61, respectively) as well as mortality or LOS.

CONCLUSION

Venous thromboembolism prophylaxis started ultra-early (≤24 h) after ICH was not associated with hematoma expansion.

PREvention of VENous Thromboembolism in Hemorrhagic Stroke Patients - PREVENTIHS Study: A Randomized Controlled Trial and a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

In this randomized trial, currently utilized standard treatments were compared with enoxaparin for the prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).

METHODS

Enoxaparin (0.4 mg daily for 10 days) was started after 72 h from the onset of ICH. The primary outcome was symptomatic or asymptomatic deep venous thrombosis as assessed by ultrasound at the end of study treatment. The safety of enoxaparin was also assessed. We included the results of this study in a meta-analysis of all relevant studies comparing anticoagulants with standard treatments or placebo.

RESULTS

PREVENTIHS was prematurely stopped after the randomization of 73 patients, due to the low recruitment rate. The prevalence of any VTE at 10 days was 15.8% in the enoxaparin group and 20.0% in the control group (RR 0.79 [95% CI 0.29-2.12]); 2.6% of enoxaparin and 8.6% of standard therapy patients had severe bleedings (RR 0.31 [95% CI 0.03-2.82]). When these results were meta-analyzed with the results of the selected studies (4,609 patients; 194 from randomized trials), anticoagulants were associated with a nonsignificant reduction in any VTE (OR 0.81; 95% CI 0.43-1.51), in pulmonary embolism (OR 0.53; 95% CI, 0.17-1.60), and in mortality (OR 0.85; 95% CI 0.64-1.12) without increase in hematoma enlargement (OR 0.97; 95% CI, 0.31-3.04).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with acute ICH, the use of anticoagulants to prevent VTE was safe but the overall level of evidence was low due to the low number of patients included in randomized clinical trials.

Characteristics and risk factors of deep vein thrombosis in hemiplegic, healthy and bilateral limbs of hemiplegic patients: a 10-year retrospective study

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in hemiplegic patients mainly affects hemiplegic limbs, DVT can also occur only in healthy limbs, and some hemiplegic patients have DVT in both limbs. Characteristics and risk factors of DVT in hemiplegic, healthy, and bilateral limbs are unknown. To describe the proportion, risk factors, extent, and timing of DVT in hemiplegic, healthy and bilateral limbs. A 10-year retrospective review of consecutive patients was performed. DVT affected hemiplegic limbs in 34 (62%), healthy limbs in 11 (20%), and was bilateral in 10 (18%). DVT was more likely to develop in healthy limbs of hemiplegic patients without surgery (odds ratio (OR) 0.022; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.001-0.922), and without diabetes (OR 0.023, 95% CI 0.001-0.853). Among the veins at the level of which DVT occurred, intermuscular veins represented 20 (45%) in hemiplegic, 5 (37%) in healthy, and 6 (74%) in bilateral limbs. The median time that DVT occurred after hemiplegia onset was 18 days (interquartile range [IQR] 9-79) in hemiplegic, 17 days (IQR 10-56) in healthy, and 21 days (IQR 8-27) in bilateral limbs. Early and effective prevention of DVT after surgery and optimal management of diabetes may reduce the risk of DVT in bilateral limbs. It's important to prevent proximal extension of calf vein DVT. DVT prophylaxis should be started early and continued for at least 3 weeks after hemiplegia onset.

Assessment of the Patient With Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Review of the Literature

Spontaneous nontraumatic intracerebral hemorrhage is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Given the risk of rapid neurological deterioration, early identification with rapid neuroimaging is vital. Predictors of outcome, such as spot sign and intracerebral hemorrhage score, can help guide management goals. Management should be aimed at prevention of hematoma expansion, treatment of increased intracranial pressure, and prevention of secondary brain injury and medical complications.

Venous thromboembolism prevention in intracerebral hemorrhage: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

To summarize and compare the effectiveness of pharmacological thromboprophylaxis to pneumatic compression devices (PCD) for the prevention of venous thromboembolism in patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage.

METHODS

MEDLINE, PUBMED, EMBASE, and CENTRAL were systematically searched to identify randomized and non-randomized studies that compared each intervention directly to each other or against a common control (hydration, anti-platelet agents, stockings) in adults with acute spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage. Two investigators independently screened the studies, extracted data, and appraised risk of bias. Studies with a high risk of bias were excluded from our final analysis. The primary outcome was the occurrence of venous thromboembolism (proximal deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism) in the first 30 days.

RESULTS

8,739 articles were screened; four articles, all randomized control trials, met eligibility criteria. Bayesian network meta-analysis was performed to calculate risk estimates using both fixed and random effects analyses. 607 patients were included in the network analysis. PCD were associated with a significant decrease in venous thromboembolism compared to control (OR: 0.43, 95% Credible Limits [CrI]: 0.23-0.80). We did not find evidence of statistically significant differences between pharmacological thromboprophylaxis and control (OR: 0.93, 95% CrI: 0.19-4.37) or between PCD and pharmacological thromboprophylaxis (OR: 0.47, 95% CrI: 0.09-2.54).

CONCLUSION

PCDs are superior to control interventions, but meaningful comparisons with pharmacotherapy are not possible due to a lack of data. This requires further exploration via large pragmatic clinical trials.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO: CRD42018090960.

The Gaps Between Current Management of Intracerebral Hemorrhage and Evidence-Based Practice Guidelines in Beijing, China

Background: The leading cause of death in China is stroke, a condition that also contributes heavily to the disease burden. Nontraumatic intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is the second most common cause of stroke. Compared to Western countries, in China the proportion of ICH is significantly higher. Standardized treatment based on evidence-based medicine can help reduce ICH's burden. In the present study we aimed to explore the agreement between the management strategies during ICH's acute phase and Class I recommendations in current international practice guidelines in Beijing (China), and to elucidate the reasons underlying any inconsistencies found.

Method: We retrospectively collected in-hospital data from 1,355 ICH patients from 15 hospitals in Beijing between January and December 2012. Furthermore, a total of 75 standardized questionnaires focusing on ICH's clinical management were distributed to 15 cooperative hospitals. Each hospital randomly selected five doctors responsible for treating ICH patients to complete the questionnaires.

Results: Numerous approaches were in line with Class I recommendations, as follows: upon admission, all patients underwent radiographic examination, about 93% of the survivors received health education and 84.5% of those diagnosed with hypertension were prescribed antihypertensive treatment at discharge, in-hospital antiepileptic drugs were administered to 91.8% of the patients presenting with seizures, and continuous monitoring was performed for 88% of the patients with hyperglycemia on admission. However, several aspects were inconsistent with the guidelines, as follows: only 14.2% of the patients were initially managed in the neurological intensive care unit and 22.3% of the bedridden patients received preventive treatment for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) within 48 h after onset. The questionnaire results showed that imaging examination, blood glucose monitoring, and secondary prevention of ICH were useful to more clinicians. However, the opposite occurred for the neurological intensive care unit requirement. Regarding the guidelines' recognition, no significant differences among the 3 education subgroups were observed (p > 0.05).

Conclusions: Doctors have recognized most of ICH's evidence-based practice guidelines. However, there are still large gaps between the management of ICH and the evidence-based practice guidelines in Beijing (China). Retraining doctors is required, including focusing on preventing DVT providing a value from the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale and Glasgow Coma Scalescores at the time of admission.

Comparing pharmacological venous thromboembolism prophylaxis to intermittent pneumatic compression in acute intracerebral haemorrhage: protocol for a systematic review and network meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Patients with an intracerebral haemorrhage are at increased risk of venous thromboembolism. Pharmacotherapy and pneumatic compression devices are capable of preventing venous thromboembolism, however both interventions have limitations. There are no head-to-head comparisons between these two interventions. To address this knowledge gap, we plan to perform a systematic review and network meta-analysis to examine the comparative effectiveness of pharmacological prophylaxis and mechanical compression devices in the context of intracerebral haemorrhage.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

MEDLINE, PUBMED, EMBASE, CENTRAL, ClinicalTrials.gov and the Internet Stroke Trials Registry will be searched with assistance from an experienced information specialist. Eligible studies will include those that have enrolled adults presenting with spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage and compared one or more of the respective interventions against each other and/or a control. Primary outcomes to be assessed are occurrence of new venous thromboembolism (deep vein thrombosis and/or pulmonary embolism) and haematoma expansion, defined as a significant enlargement of baseline haemorrhage or new haemorrhage occurrence. Both randomised and non-randomised comparative studies will be included. Data on participant characteristics, study design, intervention details and outcomes will be extracted. Study quality will be assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and the Robins-I tool. Bayesian network meta-analyses will be performed to compare interventions based on all available direct and indirect evidence. If the transitivity assumption for network meta-analysis cannot be met, we will perform a qualitative assessment.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Formal ethics is not required as primary data will not be collected. The findings of this study will be disseminated through conference presentations, and peer-reviewed publications. In an area of clinical practice where equipoise exists, the findings of this study may assist in determining which treatment intervention is most effective in venous thromboembolism prevention.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42018090960.

Graduated compression stockings for prevention of deep vein thrombosis

BACKGROUND

Hospitalised patients are at increased risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the lower limb and pelvic veins, on a background of prolonged immobilisation associated with their medical or surgical illness. Patients with DVT are at increased risk of developing a pulmonary embolism (PE). The use of graduated compression stockings (GCS) in hospitalised patients has been proposed to decrease the risk of DVT. This is an update of a Cochrane Review first published in 2000, and last updated in 2014.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of graduated compression stockings in preventing deep vein thrombosis in various groups of hospitalised patients.

SEARCH METHODS

For this review the Cochrane Vascular Information Specialist searched the Cochrane Vascular Specialised Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and trials registries on 21 March 2017; and the Cochrane Vascular Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE Ovid, Embase Ovid, CINAHL Ebsco, AMED Ovid , and trials registries on 12 June 2018.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) involving GCS alone, or GCS used on a background of any other DVT prophylactic method. We combined results from both of these groups of trials.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors (AS, MD) assessed potentially eligible trials for inclusion. One review author (AS) extracted the data, which a second review author (MD) cross-checked and authenticated. Two review authors (AS, MD) assessed the methodological quality of trials with the Cochrane 'Risk of bias' tool. Any disagreements were resolved by discussion with the senior review author (TL). For dichotomous outcomes, we calculated the Peto odds ratio and corresponding 95% confidence interval. We pooled data using a fixed-effect model. We used the GRADE system to evaluate the overall quality of the evidence supporting the outcomes assessed in this review.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 20 RCTs involving a total of 1681 individual participants and 1172 individual legs (2853 analytic units). Of these 20 trials, 10 included patients undergoing general surgery; six included patients undergoing orthopaedic surgery; three individual trials included patients undergoing neurosurgery, cardiac surgery, and gynaecological surgery, respectively; and only one trial included medical patients. Graduated compression stockings were applied on the day before surgery or on the day of surgery and were worn up until discharge or until the participants were fully mobile. In the majority of the included studies DVT was identified by the radioactive I¹²⁵ uptake test. Duration of follow-up ranged from seven to 14 days. The included studies were at an overall low risk of bias.We were able to pool the data from 20 studies reporting the incidence of DVT. In the GCS group, 134 of 1445 units developed DVT (9%) in comparison to the control group (without GCS), in which 290 of 1408 units developed DVT (21%). The Peto odds ratio (OR) was 0.35 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.28 to 0.43; 20 studies; 2853 units; high-quality evidence), showing an overall effect favouring treatment with GCS (P < 0.001).Based on results from eight included studies, the incidence of proximal DVT was 7 of 517 (1%) units in the GCS group and 28 of 518 (5%) units in the control group. The Peto OR was 0.26 (95% CI 0.13 to 0.53; 8 studies; 1035 units; moderate-quality evidence) with an overall effect favouring treatment with GCS (P < 0.001). Combining results from five studies, all based on surgical patients, the incidence of PE was 5 of 283 (2%) participants in the GCS group and 14 of 286 (5%) in the control group. The Peto OR was 0.38 (95% CI 0.15 to 0.96; 5 studies; 569 participants; low-quality evidence) with an overall effect favouring treatment with GCS (P = 0.04). We downgraded the quality of the evidence for proximal DVT and PE due to low event rate (imprecision) and lack of routine screening for PE (inconsistency).We carried out subgroup analysis by speciality (surgical or medical patients). Combining results from 19 trials focusing on surgical patients, 134 of 1365 (9.8%) units developed DVT in the GCS group compared to 282 of 1328 (21.2%) units in the control group. The Peto OR was 0.35 (95% CI 0.28 to 0.44; high-quality evidence), with an overall effect favouring treatment with GCS (P < 0.001). Based on results from seven included studies, the incidence of proximal DVT was 7 of 437 units (1.6%) in the GCS group and 28 of 438 (6.4%) in the control group. The Peto OR was 0.26 (95% CI 0.13 to 0.53; 875 units; moderate-quality evidence) with an overall effect favouring treatment with GCS (P < 0.001). We downgraded the evidence for proximal DVT due to low event rate (imprecision).Based on the results from one trial focusing on medical patients admitted following acute myocardial infarction, 0 of 80 (0%) legs developed DVT in the GCS group and 8 of 80 (10%) legs developed DVT in the control group. The Peto OR was 0.12 (95% CI 0.03 to 0.51; low-quality evidence) with an overall effect favouring treatment with GCS (P = 0.004). None of the medical patients in either group developed a proximal DVT, and the incidence of PE was not reported.Limited data were available to accurately assess the incidence of adverse effects and complications with the use of GCS as these were not routinely quantitatively reported in the included studies.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is high-quality evidence that GCS are effective in reducing the risk of DVT in hospitalised patients who have undergone general and orthopaedic surgery, with or without other methods of background thromboprophylaxis, where clinically appropriate. There is moderate-quality evidence that GCS probably reduce the risk of proximal DVT, and low-quality evidence that GCS may reduce the risk of PE. However, there remains a paucity of evidence to assess the effectiveness of GCS in diminishing the risk of DVT in medical patients.

An Electronic Alert System Is Associated With a Significant Increase in Pharmacologic Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis Rates Among Hospitalized Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients

BACKGROUND

Utilization of pharmacologic venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients seems to be suboptimal with reported rates as low as 50% in some studies. Implementation of an electronic alert system seems to be an effective tool for increasing VTE prophylaxis rates in medical inpatients. To date, no studies have assessed whether this approach is associated with improved rates of pharmacologic VTE prophylaxis specifically in IBD patients.

AIMS

To determine the efficacy of an electronic alert in improving VTE prophylaxis rates in hospitalized IBD patients.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 576 hospitalized IBD patients. The medical record of each patient was then examined to determine whether pharmacologic VTE prophylaxis was both ordered and administered, the timing of pharmacologic VTE prophylaxis, and reasons for any missed doses.

RESULTS

The VTE pharmacologic prophylaxis rate was improved from 60% to 81.2% following the implementation of the electronic alert system (p < .001). An increase in prophylaxis rates was seen in both medical (26.3% vs. 62.8%, p < .001) and surgical services (83.7% vs. 95.5%, p < .001). In patients who received pharmacologic VTE prophylaxis, 16% of all ordered doses were not administered and 57.3% of missed doses were the result of patient refusal. Hospitalization after implementation of the electronic alert system (odds ratio [OR] 4.71, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.94-7.57) and admission to a surgical service (OR 14.3, 95% CI 8.62-24.39) were predictive of VTE pharmacologic prophylaxis orders.

CONCLUSIONS

The introduction of an electronic alert system was associated with a significant increase in rates of pharmacologic VTE prophylaxis. However, orders were often delayed and doses not always administered. The most common reason that ordered doses were not given was patient refusal.

Effect of Intermittent Pneumatic Compression on Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis Among Stroke Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and subsequent pulmonary embolism (PE) are common complications of stroke. However, the effect of intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) for patients after stroke is uncertain.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness and safety of IPC in reducing the risk of DVT, PE, and mortality in stroke patients.

METHODS

We searched leading medical databases including Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Wanfang, CNKI, and CBM, from inception to June 2, 2017. Studies comparing IPC with no IPC in stroke patients were included. Agreement was measured using simple agreement and kappa statistics. The rates of PE, DVT, and mortality were compared. The results were pooled using a fixed effects model to evaluate the differences between the IPC and control groups. If there was significant heterogeneity in the pooled result, a random effect model was used.

RESULTS

We identified seven randomized controlled trials that included 3,551 stroke patients. The average calculated κ for the various parameters was κ = 0.96 (0.70-1). Overall, IPC significantly reduced the incidence of DVT in stroke patients (risk ratio [RR] = 0.50; 95% confidence interval [CI 0.27, 0.94]). At the same time, IPC increased IPC-related adverse events (RR = 5.71; 95% CI [3.40, 9.58]). Though IPC was associated with a significant increase in survival by 4.5 days during 6 months of follow-up (148-152 days; 95% CI [-0.2, 9.1]), there was a mean gain of only 0.9 days (26.7-27.6 days; 95% CI [2.1, 3.9]) in quality-adjusted survival during the 6-month follow-up. Overall, sensitivity analyses did not alter these findings.

LINKING EVIDENCE TO ACTION

This review provides an important basis for preventing DVT in stroke patients, especially in hemorrhagic stroke patients. IPC significantly reduces the risk of DVT and significantly improves survival in a wide variety of patients who are immobile after stroke. However, IPC does not significantly improve quality-adjusted survival. Clinicians should take functional status and quality of life into consideration when making decisions for stroke patients.

A systematic review of mechanical thromboprophylaxis in the lithotomy position

BACKGROUND

Venous thrombosis and compartment syndrome are potentially serious complications of prolonged, lithotomy position surgery. It is unclear whether mechanical thromboprophylaxis in this group of patients modifies the risk of compartment syndrome. This qualitative systematic review examines the evidence base to guide clinical practice.

METHOD

A systematic review was performed guided by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) criteria, to identify studies reporting relationships between lithotomy position, compartment syndrome and mechanical thromboprophylaxis. The aim was to determine if mechanical thromboprophylaxis influenced compartment syndrome risk in the lithotomy position.

RESULTS

Sixteen studies were identified: eight case reports or case series (12 patients), two completed audit cycles (approximately 2000 patients), four reviews and two volunteer case control studies (33 subjects). There were no randomised studies. Nine studies associated mechanical thromboprophylaxis with compartment syndrome risk but in each case a causative relationship was speculative. In contrast, five papers, including an experimental, cohort study and two observational, population studies recommended intermittent pneumatic compression as prevention against compartment syndrome in lithotomy position. One review and one case report were unable to make a recommendation.

CONCLUSIONS

The level of evidence addressing the interaction between the lithotomy position, compartment syndrome and mechanical thromboprophylaxis is weak. There is no conclusive evidence that mechanical thromboprophylaxis causes compartment syndrome in the lithotomy position. There is limited evidence to suggest intermittent pneumatic compression may be a safe method of mechanical thromboprophylaxis if accompanied by strict adherence to other measures to reduce the chance of compartment syndrome. However further studies are required.

Korean Clinical Practice Guidelines for Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

Despite advancements in treating ruptured cerebral aneurysms, an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is still a grave cerebrovascular disease associated with a high rate of morbidity and mortality. Based on the literature published to date, worldwide academic and governmental committees have developed clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) to propose standards for disease management in order to achieve the best treatment outcomes for aSAHs. In 2013, the Korean Society of Cerebrovascular Surgeons issued a Korean version of the CPGs for aSAHs. The group researched all articles and major foreign CPGs published in English until December 2015 using several search engines. Based on these articles, levels of evidence and grades of recommendations were determined by our society as well as by other related Quality Control Committees from neurointervention, neurology and rehabilitation medicine. The Korean version of the CPGs for aSAHs includes risk factors, diagnosis, initial management, medical and surgical management to prevent rebleeding, management of delayed cerebral ischemia and vasospasm, treatment of hydrocephalus, treatment of medical complications and early rehabilitation. The CPGs are not the absolute standard but are the present reference as the evidence is still incomplete, each environment of clinical practice is different, and there is a high probability of variation in the current recommendations. The CPGs will be useful in the fields of clinical practice and research.

Update on the Treatment of Spontaneous Intraparenchymal Hemorrhage: Medical and Interventional Management

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Spontaneous intraparenchymal hemorrhage (IPH) is a prominent challenge faced globally by neurosurgeons, neurologists, and intensivists. Over the past few decades, basic and clinical research efforts have been undertaken with the goal of delineating biologically and evidence-based practices aimed at decreasing mortality and optimizing the likelihood of meaningful functional outcome for patients afflicted with this devastating condition. Here, the authors review the medical and surgical approaches available for the treatment of spontaneous intraparenchymal hemorrhage, identifying areas of recent progress and ongoing research to delineate the scope and scale of IPH as it is currently understood and treated.

RECENT FINDINGS

The approaches to IPH have broadly focused on arresting expansion of hemorrhage using a number of approaches. Recent trials have addressed the effectiveness of rapid blood pressure lowering in hypertensive patients with IPH, with rapid lowering demonstrated to be safe and at least partially effective in preventing hematoma expansion. Hemostatic therapy with platelet transfusion in patients on anti-platelet medications has been recently demonstrated to have no benefit and may be harmful. Hemostasis with administration of clotting complexes has not been shown to be effective in reducing hematoma expansion or improving outcomes although correcting these abnormalities as soon as possible remains good practice until further data are available. Stereotactically guided drainage of IPH with intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) has been shown to be safe and to improve outcomes. Research on new stereotactic surgical methods has begun to show promise. Patients with IPH should have rapid and accurate diagnosis with neuroimaging with computed tomography (CT) and computed tomography angiography (CTA). Early interventions should include control of hypertension to a systolic BP in the range of 140 mmHg for small hemorrhages without intracranial hypertension with beta blockers or calcium channel blockers, correction of any coagulopathy if present, and assessment of the need for surgical intervention. IPH and FUNC (Functional Outcome in Patients with Primary Intracerebral Hemorrhage) scores should be assessed. Patients should be dispositioned to a dedicated neurologic ICU if available. Patients should be monitored for seizures and intracranial pressure issues. Select patients, particularly those with intraventricular extension, may benefit from evacuation of hematoma with a ventriculostomy or stereotactically guided catheter. Once stabilized, patients should be reassessed with CT imaging and receive ongoing management of blood pressure, cerebral edema, ICP issues, and seizures as they arise. The goal of care for most patients is to regain capacity to receive multidisciplinary rehabilitation to optimize functional outcome.

Deep Vein Thrombosis in Acute Stroke - A Systemic Review of the Literature

We present a systemic review of available literature on the complications of deep venous thrombosis that develops in patients presenting with acute stroke. There are several pharmacological and physical treatment options available and used. We aim to summarize the management plans currently used at different centers. In conclusion, low-dose anticoagulant therapy for ischemic stroke is recommended. In the case of intracerebral hemorrhage, pneumatic sequential compression devices should be placed initially, followed by the administration of ultra-fractioned heparin on the next day, and then oral anticoagulant therapy to replace the heparin after a week in high-risk patients. Similar prophylactic treatment recommendations are used for subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Impact of practice change in reducing venous thromboembolism in neurocritical overweight patients: 2008-2014

Publications regarding early initiating venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis have been available since the early 1990s. These recommendations became available in current guidelines on and after 2012. The purpose of this study is to review the practice change in reducing the incidence of VTE in brain injury patients from 2008 to 2014. This was a single-center, retrospective, observational, cohort study. Data was extracted from our data base that included patients over 100 kg from January 2008 to August 2014. Included were all patients admitted with a primary diagnosis of acute brain and spinal injury to neurocritical care unit. Clinical endpoints examined were incidence of bleeding and VTE. A total of 509 patients who met the inclusion criteria were divided into two groups: The previous group (n = 212) included patients from 2008 to 2010, and the recent group (n = 297) included patients from 2011 to 2014. The time for initiating VTE prophylaxis from admission was (median, IQR) 73 h (37-140) vs. 34 h (20-46); p < 0.01. There were no differences in major and minor bleeding complications. Discontinuation of VTE prophylaxis for association with progressive bleeding was not documented in any of the study patients. The incidence of VTE was 10 % (22/212) vs. 5 % (15/297); p = 0.02. In hospital LOS in days was 16 (10-26) vs. 7 (4-15); P < 0.01. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, only the time of the initiation VTE prophylaxis after admission was significantly associated with the occurrence of VTE (median, IQR) 70 h (37-158) vs. 36 h (20-63); OR 1.004, 95 % CI 1.001-1.007; P < 0.01. In this 6-year review of data, early initiation of VTE prophylaxis has decreased the incidence of VTE without clinically documented bleeding complications.

Current management of spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage

Intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) is the most devastating and disabling type of stroke. Uncontrolled hypertension (HTN) is the most common cause of spontaneous ICH. Recent advances in neuroimaging, organised stroke care, dedicated Neuro-ICUs, medical and surgical management have improved the management of ICH. Early airway protection, control of malignant HTN, urgent reversal of coagulopathy and surgical intervention may increase the chance of survival for patients with severe ICH. Intensive lowering of systolic blood pressure to <140 mm Hg is proven safe by two recent randomised trials. Transfusion of platelets in patients on antiplatelet therapy is not indicated unless the patient is scheduled for surgical evacuation of haematoma. In patients with small haematoma without significant mass effect, there is no indication for routine use of mannitol or hypertonic saline (HTS). However, for patients with large ICH (volume > 30 cbic centmetre) or symptomatic perihaematoma oedema, it may be beneficial to keep serum sodium level at 140–150 mEq/L for 7–10 days to minimise oedema expansion and mass effect. Mannitol and HTS can be used emergently for worsening cerebral oedema, elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) or pending herniation. HTS should be administered via central line as continuous infusion (3%) or bolus (23.4%). Ventriculostomy is indicated for patients with severe intraventricular haemorrhage, hydrocephalus or elevated ICP. Patients with large cerebellar or temporal ICH may benefit from emergent haematoma evacuation. It is important to start intermittent pneumatic compression devices at the time of admission and subcutaneous unfractionated heparin in stable patients within 48 hours of admission for prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism. There is no benefit for seizure prophylaxis or aggressive management of fever or hyperglycaemia. Early aggressive comprehensive care may improve survival and functional recovery.

Management of intracerebral hemorrhage

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a potentially devastating neurologic injury representing 10-15% of stroke cases in the USA each year. Numerous risk factors, including age, hypertension, male gender, coagulopathy, genetic susceptibility, and ethnic descent, have been identified. Timely identification, workup, and management of this condition remain a challenge for clinicians as numerous factors can present obstacles to achieving good functional outcomes. Several large clinical trials have been conducted over the prior decade regarding medical and surgical interventions. However, no specific treatment has shown a major impact on clinical outcome. Current management guidelines do exist based on medical evidence and consensus and these provide a framework for care. While management of hypertension and coagulopathy are generally considered basic tenets of ICH management, a variety of measures for surgical hematoma evacuation, intracranial pressure control, and intraventricular hemorrhage can be further pursued in the emergent setting for selected patients. The complexity of management in parenchymal cerebral hemorrhage remains challenging and offers many areas for further investigation. A systematic approach to the background, pathology, and early management of spontaneous parenchymal hemorrhage is provided.

Prophylaxis of Venous Thrombosis in Neurocritical Care Patients: An Evidence-Based Guideline: A Statement for Healthcare Professionals from the Neurocritical Care Society

The risk of death from venous thromboembolism (VTE) is high in intensive care unit patients with neurological diagnoses. This is due to an increased risk of venous stasis secondary to paralysis as well as an increased prevalence of underlying pathologies that cause endothelial activation and create an increased risk of embolus formation. In many of these diseases, there is an associated risk from bleeding because of standard VTE prophylaxis. There is a paucity of prospective studies examining different VTE prophylaxis strategies in the neurologically ill. The lack of a solid evidentiary base has posed challenges for the establishment of consistent and evidence-based clinical practice standards. In response to this need for guidance, the Neurocritical Care Society set out to develop and evidence-based guideline using GRADE to safely reduce VTE and its associated complications.

The critical care management of spontaneous intracranial hemorrhage: a contemporary review

Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), defined as nontraumatic bleeding into the brain parenchyma, is the second most common subtype of stroke, with 5.3 million cases and over 3 million deaths reported worldwide in 2010. Case fatality is extremely high (reaching approximately 60 % at 1 year post event). Only 20 % of patients who survive are independent within 6 months. Factors such as chronic hypertension, cerebral amyloid angiopathy, and anticoagulation are commonly associated with ICH. Chronic arterial hypertension represents the major risk factor for bleeding. The incidence of hypertension-related ICH is decreasing in some regions due to improvements in the treatment of chronic hypertension. Anticoagulant-related ICH (vitamin K antagonists and the newer oral anticoagulant drugs) represents an increasing cause of ICH, currently accounting for more than 15 % of all cases. Although questions regarding the optimal medical and surgical management of ICH still remain, recent clinical trials examining hemostatic therapy, blood pressure control, and hematoma evacuation have advanced our understanding of ICH management. Timely and aggressive management in the acute phase may mitigate secondary brain injury. The initial management should include: initial medical stabilization; rapid, accurate neuroimaging to establish the diagnosis and elucidate an etiology; standardized neurologic assessment to determine baseline severity; prevention of hematoma expansion (blood pressure management and reversal of coagulopathy); consideration of early surgical intervention; and prevention of secondary brain injury. This review aims to provide a clinical approach for the practicing clinician.

Elevated lipoprotein (a) levels predict deep vein thrombosis in acute ischemic stroke patients

Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The purpose of this study was to investigate whether Lp(a) serum levels at admission could be a risk factor for DVT in Chinese patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). A total of 232 patients with AIS were included in the study. The patients were assessed for DVT using colour Doppler ultrasonography. We performed colour Doppler ultrasonography 15 days after the stroke and whenever clinically requested. The value of Lp(a) to predict the DVT was analyzed using logistic regression analysis after adjusting for the possible confounders. In our study, 44 out of the 232 patients (19.0%) were diagnosed with DVT at 15-day follow-up. Serum Lp(a) levels were higher in AIS with DVT than in those patients without DVT [656 (interquartile range, 521-898) mg/l vs. 253 (interquartile range, 143-440) mg/l; P<0.0001]. Increased risk of DVT associated with Lp(a) levels greater than or equal to 300 mg/l was found in the multivariate analysis [odds ratio 12.14, 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.08-42.09; P<0.0001]. Visible by the receiver operating characteristic, the optimal cutoff value of serum Lp(a) levels for predicting DVT was projected to be 420 mg/l, yielding a sensitivity of 88.5% and a specificity of 75.4%. With an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.89 (95% CI, 0.84-0.94), Lp(a) exhibited greater discrimination in predicting DVT compared with Hs-CRP (AUC, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.69-0.85; P<0.01), HCY (AUC, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.68-0.84; P<0.01), and NIHSS score (AUC, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.66-0.82; P<0.001). Elevated serum Lp(a) levels were independent predictors of DVT in AIS patients in China, revealing the critical role played by Lp(a) in the pathogenesis of DVT.

The Use of Intermittent Pneumatic Compression in Orthopedic and Neurosurgical Postoperative Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to carry out an up-to-date evaluation on the use of compression devices as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis methods in orthopedic and neurological patients.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

There is an increased risk of DVT with surgery, particularly in patients who are not expected to mobilize soon after their procedures, such as orthopedic and neurosurgical patients. Compression devices are often employed for DVT prophylaxis in these patients. However, the true efficacy of these devices and the standardization of use with these devices are yet to be established.

METHODS

Medline, CINAHL, Embase, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane library electronic databases were searched to identify randomized controlled trials and observational studies reporting on the use of compression devices for DVT prevention.

RESULTS

Nine studies were included for review and meta-analysis. Use of an intermittent pneumatic compression device alone is neither superior nor inferior to chemoprophylaxis.

CONCLUSIONS

In the absence of large randomized multicenter trials comparing the use of intermittent pneumatic compression or chemoprophylaxis alone to a combination of both treatments, the current evidence supports the use of a combined approach in high-risk surgical patients.

The Clots in Legs Or sTockings after Stroke (CLOTS) 3 trial: a randomised controlled trial to determine whether or not intermittent pneumatic compression reduces the risk of post-stroke deep vein thrombosis and to estimate its cost-effectiveness

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common cause of death and morbidity in stroke patients. There are few data concerning the effectiveness of intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) in treating patients with stroke.

OBJECTIVES

To establish whether or not the application of IPC to the legs of immobile stroke patients reduced their risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

DESIGN

Clots in Legs Or sTockings after Stroke (CLOTS) 3 was a multicentre, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial which allocated patients via a central randomisation system to IPC or no IPC. A technician blinded to treatment allocation performed compression duplex ultrasound (CDU) of both legs at 7-10 days and 25-30 days after enrolment. We followed up patients for 6 months to determine survival and later symptomatic VTE. Patients were analysed according to their treatment allocation.

SETTING

We enrolled 2876 patients in 94 UK hospitals between 8 December 2008 and 6 September 2012.

PARTICIPANTS

INCLUSION CRITERIA

patients admitted to hospital within 3 days of acute stroke and who were immobile on the day of admission (day 0) to day 3.

EXCLUSION CRITERIA

age < 16 years; subarachnoid haemorrhage; and contra-indications to IPC including dermatitis, leg ulcers, severe oedema, severe peripheral vascular disease and congestive cardiac failure.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants were allocated to routine care or routine care plus IPC for 30 days, or until earlier discharge or walking independently.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was DVT in popliteal or femoral veins, detected on a screening CDU, or any symptomatic DVT in the proximal veins, confirmed by imaging, within 30 days of randomisation. The secondary outcomes included death, any DVTs, symptomatic DVTs, pulmonary emboli, skin breaks on the legs, falls with injury or fractures and duration of IPC use occurring within 30 days of randomisation and survival, symptomatic VTE, disability (as measured by the Oxford Handicap Scale), quality of life (as measured by the European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions 3 Level questionnaire) and length of initial hospital stay measured 6 months after randomisation.

RESULTS

We allocated 1438 patients to IPC and 1438 to no IPC. The primary outcome occurred in 122 (8.5%) of 1438 patients allocated to IPC and 174 (12.1%) of 1438 patients allocated to no IPC, giving an absolute reduction in risk of 3.6% [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.4% to 5.8%] and a relative risk reduction of 0.69 (95% CI 0.55 to 0.86). After excluding 323 patients who died prior to any primary outcome and 41 who had no screening CDU, the primary outcome occurred in 122 of 1267 IPC participants compared with 174 of 1245 no-IPC participants, giving an adjusted odds ratio of 0.65 (95% CI 0.51 to 0.84; p = 0.001). Secondary outcomes in IPC compared with no-IPC participants were death in the treatment period in 156 (10.8%) versus 189 (13.1%) (p = 0.058); skin breaks in 44 (3.1%) versus 20 (1.4%) (p = 0.002); and falls with injury in 33 (2.3%) versus 24 (1.7%) (p = 0.221). Among patients treated with IPC, there was a statistically significant improvement in survival to 6 months (hazard ratio 0.86, 95% CI 0.73 to 0.99; p = 0.042), but no improvement in disability. The direct cost of preventing a DVT was £1282 per event (95% CI £785 to £3077).

CONCLUSIONS

IPC is an effective and inexpensive method of reducing the risk of DVT and improving survival in immobile stroke patients.

FUTURE RESEARCH

Further research should test whether or not IPC improves survival in other groups of high-risk hospitalised medical patients. In addition, research into methods to improve adherence to IPC might increase the benefits of IPC in stroke patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN93529999.

FUNDING

The start-up phase of the trial (December 2008-March 2010) was funded by the Chief Scientist Office of the Scottish Government (reference number CZH/4/417). The main phase of the trial was funded by the National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment programme (reference number 08/14/03). Covidien Ltd (Mansfield, MA, USA) lent its Kendall SCD™ Express sequential compression system controllers to the 105 centres involved in the trial and donated supplies of its sleeves. It also provided logistical help in keeping our centres supplied with sleeves and training materials relevant to the use of their devices. Recruitment and follow-up were supported by the National Institute for Health Research-funded UK Stroke Research Network and by the Scottish Stroke Research Network, which was supported by NHS Research Scotland.

High dose subcutaneous unfractionated heparin for prevention of venous thromboembolism in overweight neurocritical care patients

Timing and dosing of chemical venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis in brain injury is controversial. Risk of bleeding while using high dose unfractionated heparin (UFH) in overweight patients to prevent VTE is also unknown. The purpose of this study was to describe the use of subcutaneous heparin 7500 units for VTE prophylaxis in overweight patients. This was a retrospective study comparing patients over 100 kg who received either 7500 units Q8 h (n = 141) (high dose group, HDG), or 5000 units Q8 h (n = 257) (traditional dose group, TDG), of UFH subcutaneously. Both groups had similar rates of bleeding complications. The incidence of drop in hemoglobin by two points in any 24 h was 14 % (20/141) HDG versus 11 % (28/257) TDG; P = 0.33. Hemoglobin drop by two points from baseline was 57 % (81/141) HDG versus 51 % (132/257) TDG; P = 0.24. The need for pRBC transfusion was 26 % (36/141) HDG versus 20 % (52/257) TDG; P = 0.22. An increase in aPTT from baseline by two times was 4 % (5/141) HDG versus 4 % (9/257) TDG, P = 0.59. Discontinuation of heparin therapy for association with progressive bleeding was not documented in any patients. No differences in minor bleeding complications were observed. There was no difference in the incidence of VTE: 5.7 % (8/141) HDG versus 9.3 % (24/257) TDG; P = 0.2. In univariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis, only the time of the initiation of heparin after admission was associated with the occurrence of VTE (median, IQR) 46 h (17-86) HDG versus 105 h (56-167) TDG; OR 1.2 (1.1-1.3); P < 0.001. High dose subcutaneous UFH was not associated with an increased risk of bleeding, nor did it decrease the incidence of VTE in overweight patients.

The clinical management of acute intracerebral hemorrhage

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a stroke subtype with high mortality and significant disability among survivors. The management of ICH has been influenced by the results of several major trials completed in the last decade. It is now recognized that hematoma expansion is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. However, efforts to improve clinical outcome through mitigation of hematoma expansion have so far been unsuccessful. Acute blood pressure management has recently been shown to be safe in the setting of acute ICH but there was no reduction in mortality with early blood pressure (BP) lowering. Two large trials of surgical evacuation of supratentorial ICH have not shown improvement in outcome with surgery, thus minimally invasive surgical strategies are currently being studied. Lastly, a better understanding of the pathophysiology of ICH has led to the identification of several new mechanisms of injury that could be potential therapeutic targets.

Venous thromboembolism and underutilisation of anticoagulant thromboprophylaxis in hospitalised patients with inflammatory bowel disease

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a well-recognised extra-intestinal manifestation of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Despite the widespread support for anticoagulant prophylaxis in hospitalised IBD patients, the utilisation and efficacy in clinical practice are unknown.

AIMS

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and clinical features of VTE among hospitalised IBD patients and ascertain whether appropriate thromboprophylaxis had been administered.

METHODS

All patients with a discharge diagnosis of Crohn disease or ulcerative colitis and VTE were retrospectively identified using International Classification of Diseases, tenth revision codes from medical records at our institution from July 1998 to December 2009. Medical records were then reviewed for clinical history and utilisation of thromboprophylaxis. Statistical analysis was performed by Mann-Whitney test and either χ(2) tests or Fisher's exact tests.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine of 3758 (0.8%) IBD admissions suffered VTE, 13 preadmission and 16 during admission. Of these 29 admissions (in 25 patients), 24% required intensive care unit and 10% died. Of the 16 venous thrombotic events that occurred during an admission, eight (50%) did not receive anticoagulant thromboprophylaxis and eight (50%) occurred despite thromboprophylaxis. Most thromboembolism despite prophylaxis occurred post-intestinal resection (n = 5, 63%).

CONCLUSION

Thromboprophylaxis is underutilised in half of IBD patients suffering VTE. Prescription of thromboprophylaxis for all hospitalised IBD patients, including dual pharmacological and mechanical prophylaxis in postoperative patients, may lead to a reduction in this preventable complication of IBD.

High Plasma Levels of D-Dimer Are Independently Associated with a Heightened Risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis in Patients with Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a complication of stroke. Our aim was to determine whether D-dimer plasma levels at admission could be a risk factor for DVT in Chinese patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). From December 2012 to November 2014, all patients with first-ever acute ICH were included. At baseline, the demographical and clinical data were taken. These patients were assessed for DVT using color Doppler ultrasonography (CDUS) on 15 days after ICH and whenever clinically requested. Multivariate analyses were performed using logistic regression models. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to test the overall predictive accuracy of D-dimer and other markers. In our study, acute ICH was diagnosed in 265 patients and 210 completed a 15-day follow-up and were included in the analysis. Fifty-four (25.7 %) out of the 210 patients were diagnosed as DVT. Plasma D-dimer levels were significantly higher in ICH patients with DVT as compared to those without DVT (P < 0.0001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusted for common risk factors showed that plasma D-dimer levels ≥1.20 mg/L were an independent predictor of DVT [odds ratio (OR) = 12.99, 95 % confidence interval (CI) = 3.17-32.98; P < 0.0001]. With an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.91 (95 % CI = 0.86-0.94), D-dimer showed a significantly greater discriminatory ability to predict DVT as compared with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (Hs-CRP) (AUC = 0.77, 95 % CI = 0.70-0.82; P < 0.01), homocysteine (HCY) (AUC = 0.75, 95 % CI = 0.70-0.81; P < 0.01), and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score (AUC = 0.80, 95 % CI = 0.72-0.85; P < 0.01). The present study suggested that elevated D-dimer plasma levels were independent predictors for DVT in Chinese patients with ICH.

Venous thromboembolism in hospitalized adolescents: an approach to risk assessment and prophylaxis

BACKGROUND

Pediatric hospital-acquired venous thromboembolism (VTE) is an increasingly prevalent and morbid disease. A multidisciplinary team at a tertiary children's hospital sought to answer the following clinical question: "Among hospitalized adolescents, does risk assessment and stratified VTE prophylaxis compared with no prophylaxis reduce VTE occurrence without an increase in significant adverse effects?"

METHODS

Serial literature searches using key terms were performed in the following databases: Medline, Cochrane Database, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health), Scopus, EBMR (Evidence Based Medicine Reviews). Pediatric studies were sought preferentially; when pediatric evidence was sparse, adult studies were included. Abstracts and titles were screened, and relevant full articles were reviewed. Studies were rated for quality using a standard rating system.

RESULTS

Moderate evidence exists to support VTE risk assessment in adolescents. This evidence comes from pediatric studies that are primarily retrospective in design. The results of the studies are consistent and cite prominent factors such as immobilization and central venous access. There is insufficient evidence to support specific prophylactic strategies in pediatric patients because available pediatric evidence for thromboprophylaxis efficacy and safety is minimal. There is, however, high-quality, consistent evidence demonstrating efficacy and safety of thromboprophylaxis in adults.

CONCLUSIONS

On the basis of the best available evidence, we propose a strategy for risk assessment and stratified VTE prophylaxis for hospitalized adolescents. This strategy involves assessing risk factors and considering prophylactic measures based on level of risk. We believe this strategy may reduce risk of VTE and appropriately balances the adverse effect profile of mechanical and pharmacologic prophylactic methods.

Steps to consider in the approach and management of critically ill patient with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage

Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage is a type of stroke associated with poor outcomes. Mortality is elevated, especially in the acute phase. From a pathophysiological point of view the bleeding must traverse different stages dominated by the possibility of re-bleeding, edema, intracranial hypertension, inflammation and neurotoxicity due to blood degradation products, mainly hemoglobin and thrombin. Neurological deterioration and death are common in early hours, so it is a true neurological-neurosurgical emergency. Time is brain so that action should be taken fast and accurately. The most significant prognostic factors are level of consciousness, location, volume and ventricular extension of the bleeding. Nihilism and early withdrawal of active therapy undoubtedly influence the final result. Although there are no proven therapeutic measures, treatment should be individualized and guided preferably by pathophysiology. The multidisciplinary teamwork is essential. Results of recently completed studies have birth to promising new strategies. For correct management it’s important to establish an orderly and systematic strategy based on clinical stabilization, evaluation and establishment of prognosis, avoiding secondary insults and adoption of specific individualized therapies, including hemostatic therapy and intensive control of elevated blood pressure. Uncertainty continues regarding the role of surgery.

[Deep vein thrombosis and lung embolisms in patients with stroke: prevention and therapy]

Prevention and therapy of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolisms in patients with acute stroke (ischemia and hemorrhage) represent a special challenge in the clinical routine. This article gives an overview on the epidemiology, risk factors and causes of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in patients with acute stroke. The focus lies on the efficacy and safety of prophylactic treatment with compression stockings, compression devices and anticoagulants. Special therapeutic options in the event of symptomatic deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolisms in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage and increased risk of recurrent bleeding are presented.

Guidelines for the Management of Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Guideline for Healthcare Professionals From the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association

PURPOSE

The aim of this guideline is to present current and comprehensive recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage.

METHODS

A formal literature search of PubMed was performed through the end of August 2013. The writing committee met by teleconference to discuss narrative text and recommendations. Recommendations follow the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association methods of classifying the level of certainty of the treatment effect and the class of evidence. Prerelease review of the draft guideline was performed by 6 expert peer reviewers and by the members of the Stroke Council Scientific Oversight Committee and Stroke Council Leadership Committee.

RESULTS

Evidence-based guidelines are presented for the care of patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage. Topics focused on diagnosis, management of coagulopathy and blood pressure, prevention and control of secondary brain injury and intracranial pressure, the role of surgery, outcome prediction, rehabilitation, secondary prevention, and future considerations. Results of new phase 3 trials were incorporated.

CONCLUSIONS

Intracerebral hemorrhage remains a serious condition for which early aggressive care is warranted. These guidelines provide a framework for goal-directed treatment of the patient with intracerebral hemorrhage.

Antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapy after intracerebral hemorrhage

Management of patients with an indication for long-term oral antithrombotic therapy who have an intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) presents a therapeutic dilemma. Should antithrombotic therapy be resumed, and if so, when, using what agent, and for whom? There is no consensus for answers to these questions. In the absence of randomized trials, management of antithrombotic therapy after ICH is based on a combination of observational data, pathophysiologic concepts, and decision analysis. At the heart of the decision is an assessment of the individual patient's risk of thromboembolism off antithrombotic therapy versus risk of ICH recurrence on antithrombotic therapy.

Graduated compression stockings for prevention of deep vein thrombosis

BACKGROUND

One of the settings where deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the lower limb and pelvic veins occurs is in hospital with prolonged immobilisation of patients for various surgical and medical illnesses. Using graduated compression stockings (GCS) in these patients has been proposed to decrease the risk of DVT. This is an update of a Cochrane review first published in 2000 and updated in 2010.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of graduated compression stockings in preventing DVT in various groups of hospitalised patients.

SEARCH METHODS

For this update the Cochrane Peripheral Vascular Diseases Group Trials Search Co-ordinator searched the Specialised Register (last searched March 2014) and CENTRAL (2014, Issue 2).

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) involving GCS alone; or GCS used on a background of any other DVT prophylactic method. Results from both these groups of trials were combined in this update.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

For this update one review author (AS) extracted the data. These were cross-checked and authenticated by a second author (MJD). Two review authors (AS and MJD) assessed the quality of trials. Disagreements were resolved by discussion.

MAIN RESULTS

Nineteen RCTs were identified involving 1681 individual patients and 1064 individual legs (2745 analytic units). Of these 19 trials, nine included patients undergoing general surgery, six included patients undergoing orthopaedic surgery, and only one trial included medical patients. Graduated compression stockings were applied on the day before surgery or on the day of surgery and were worn up until discharge or until the patients were fully mobile. In the majority of the included studies DVT was identified by the radioactive I(125) uptake test. Overall, included studies were of good quality.In the treatment group (GCS) of 1391 units 126 developed DVT (9%) in comparison to the control group (without GCS) of 1354 units where 282 (21%) developed DVT. The Peto odds ratio (OR) was 0.33 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.26 to 0.41) with an overall effect favouring treatment with GCS (P < 0.00001).Based on results from eight included studies, the incidence of proximal DVT was 7 of 517 (1%) units in the treatment group and 28 of 518 (5%) units in the control group. The Peto OR was 0.26 (95% CI 0.13 to 0.53) with an overall effect favouring treatment with GCS (P = 0.0002). Based on results from five included studies, the incidence of PE was 5 of 283 (2%) participants in the treatment group and 14 of 286 (5%) in the control group. The Peto OR was 0.38 (95% CI 0.15 to 0.96) with an overall effect favouring treatment with GCS (P = 0.04). Limited data were available to accurately assess the incidence of adverse effects and complications with the use of GCS.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

GCS are effective in diminishing the risk of DVT in hospitalised patients, with strong evidence favouring their use in general and orthopaedic surgery. However, evidence for their effectiveness in medical patients is limited to one trial.