Publication:

Deep vein thrombosis risk stratification in intensive care unit patients: a pressing need

Background Risk stratification of deep vein thrombosis in patients admitted to ICU and incorporating DVT risk assessment score as a regular practice were the aim of the present study.

Methods This study was carried out in 67 patients admitted in ICU >18 years of age, over one year. Patients with confirmed DVT, 72 hours (p value was 0.009) and risk group.

Conclusions Prolonged bed rest, paralysis and central venous access are the most important contributing conditions for high risk of DVT. Risk stratification should be routinely performed in ICU.  SMART assessment tool and pre-test probability scores are both equally efficacious in identifying high risk patients for DVT. Both mechanical and pharmacological means of DVT prophylaxis are equally effective in preventing DVT.