Venous Thromboembolism Flashcards
What is the cause done VTE after major surgery?
Thromboplastin release
What are the medical conditions with the highest risk of VTE?
Right heart failure
Stroke with lower extremity weakness
Cancer
What is responsible for the variable anticoagulant effect of heparin?
Plasma protein levels
Heparin binds these, macrophage, and endothelial cells. This messes with its bioavailability
What is the MOA of unfractionated heparin?
Bind to antithrombin III and this complex inactivates factor 2a (thrombin) and Xa
What is the standard dosing of LDUH?
5,000 units q8 or q 12
What are the advantages of LMWH?
- More potent anticoagulant
- More predictable effect
- Longer duration of action (doesn’t bind endothelial cells or macrophage)
- Reduced binding of platelets (lower risk of HIT)
What is the disadvantage of LMWH?
Cleared renally
What type of surgeries is LMWH superior to LDUH for?
Major orthopedic surgery
What is the dosage of enoxaparin in obese patients?
0.5 mg/kg
What are the advantages of dalteparin over lovenox?
Given only once daily in higher doses
Can be continued without dose reduction in renal failure
How long should you hold LMWH before an epidural?
If twice a day dosing - 12 hours
If once a day dosing - 24 hours
How long do you wait after an epidural to restart LMWH?
2 hours
How do graded compression stockings work?
Create a gradient of external pressure to force venous outflow of the legs
Can graded compression stockings be used alone for thromboprophylaxis?
No
Can intermittent pneumatic compressions be used alone?
Yes
What are the clinical symptoms of PE?
Tachypnea, tachycardia, hypoxemia, dypsnea
What is the principal method for finding venous thrombosis in the leg?
Compression us