5 Precautions to Avoid Thrombosis After Surgery

The specialist provides advice on actions to be taken in the postoperative period to reduce the risk of thrombosis and explains the risk factors

Today, September 16th, we celebrate the National Day for the Fight and Prevention of Thrombosiswhich aims to raise awareness among the population about possible strategies to prevent and treat the problem. And one of the occasions in which this advice is most necessary is when postoperative, when there may be a higher risk of blood clot formation.

According to plastic surgeon Luis Maatz, any surgical procedure carries a risk of venous thrombosis, a condition also called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Blood clots usually appear in the legs or pelvic area, but they can also appear in other places.

“It is characterized by the formation of clots or thrombi within the blood vessels, compromising blood flow. When these clots break away from the veins, they can reach vital organs, particularly the lungs, causing pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE), which can lead to potentially serious complications,” says the specialist in General Surgery and Plastic Surgery at HC-FMUSP.

The greatest risk of thrombosis in the postoperative period occurs due to rest and reduced mobilization, which reduces blood circulation. “However, the possibility is greater when there are risk factors such as the use of contraceptive pills, family history, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, genetic or autoimmune diseases, among other conditions,” adds Maatz.

Special care should be taken in the first 48 hours after surgery, but thrombosis can also occur later, 15 to 20 days after surgery. “Pay attention if you notice swelling or pain in the calf; hot, red skin or stiffness in the legs,” the plastic surgeon advises.

If you have symptoms, seek emergency help immediately. But, after all, how can you prevent all this trouble from happening?

Here is expert advice to reduce the risk of thrombosis in the postoperative period:

Check the information with your surgeon

First, make sure your surgeon follows the DVT/TEP prevention protocol. In most plastic surgeries, except for minor procedures with no postoperative walking restrictions, some type of intervention is necessary to prevent thrombosis.

“Check with your surgeon to see if the hospital provides an intermittent pneumatic compression device to massage your legs and whether you should use blood-thinning medications,” says Maatz.

Keep your legs elevated and massaged

To avoid thrombosis after surgery, it is also important to place pillows or cushions under your legs and feet, so that they are slightly elevated. Also, move your feet several times a day and ask someone to massage your legs.

“These techniques prevent blood from stagnating in the legs and circulate better, which reduces the risk of thrombosis,” explains the specialist.

Don’t stand still all the time

Postoperative rest is necessary for faster recovery and better healing. However, the patient should not remain immobile all the time.

“Short walks around the house during the day are important to prevent clots from forming, as well as helping with bowel function. In the first week after surgery, it’s essential to take these walks, with someone to supervise or help,” she explains.

Use compression stockings continuously

It is essential to follow all of your doctor’s instructions when you return home, including the possible use of compression stockings, which help stimulate circulation.

“In the first 10 or 14 days after surgery, it is essential to continuously use antithrombotic socks. If necessary, buy two, in case they get dirty. The important thing is to always keep them on your legs and take them off only when you are about to take a shower”, comments the expert.

Take your prescribed medications responsibly

According to the plastic surgeon, after plastic surgery it is customary to prescribe analgesics and anti-inflammatories for pain and antibiotics to prevent infections. “If necessary, the surgeon can also prescribe anticoagulants, which prevent the formation of blood clots,” emphasizes Luís Maatz.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.