Deep Vein Thrombosis Flashcards
What risk factors make up Virchow’s triad?
Stasis of blood flow
Endothelial injury
Hypercoagulability
What are the risk factors for DVT? (5)
Age
Obesity
Surgery, immobility/ bed rest, leg fracture, plaster of Paris
High oestrogen states - combined OCP, HRT, pregnancy
Long haul flights/ travel
What are the symptoms of a DVT? (4)
Calf pain
Calf swelling
Calf warmth
Redness
What are the signs of a DVT? (2)
Ankle swelling
Pitting oedema
How would you investigate a DVT? (2)
D-Dimer in blood: negative EXCLUDES DVT diagnosis
Ultrasound compression: if vein compresses = no clot. If vein doesn’t compress = CLOT!
How would you treat DVT? (3)
LMWH (until warfarin kicks in)
Warfarin/ DOACs
Compression stockings
How does LMWH work?
(Activates antithrombin III which then) Inactivates factor Xa
How does warfarin work?
Antagonises vitamin K dependent clotting factors - 2, 7, 9, 10
(Blocks the liver from using vit K to make clotting factors)
How can you prevent a DVT from occurring? (3)
Compression stockings
Early mobilisation
Leg elevation