Any orthopedic surgery, such as joint replacement or spinal procedures, is life-altering as it enhances your quality of life and provides you with improved mobility. Similar to any surgical treatment, however, there are side effects and potential risks as well. One of the major complications that may occur post an orthopedic surgery is the blood clot, especially deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is the result of the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein, which is usually in the legs. If proper treatment is not provided, it may further become a life-threatening pulmonary embolism (PE) in case it goes to the lungs. Knowing how to mitigate the risk of blood clots after an orthopedic surgery is essential for a safe and steady recovery.
What Are the Causes of a Blood Clot After an Orthopedic Surgery?
Blood clots are engineered as a natural response to injury as they prevent excessive bleeding. However, specific factors play a role in influencing the risk of abnormal clot formation after a surgery. They consist of:
- Immobility: It is no secret that patients may experience a lesser range of motion after an orthopedic surgery. This is caused by slower blood circulation, which in turn may increase the risk of clot formation. When you are not active, the flow of blood in your veins slows down, especially in the regions of your legs. This stagnation of blood can result in the formation of clots. Most orthopedic surgeons, therefore, advise the patients to stay in bed and limit movement for longer periods, which makes immobility a major risk factor.
- Trauma from Surgery: Orthopedic surgeries, specifically those involving the lower extremities, have the potential to damage blood vessels, which may trigger the formation of a clot. The physical trauma from surgery may affect the walls of the blood vessels, resulting in them narrowing or becoming irregular. This damage may make the clotting mechanism of the body active and lead to clot formation at the place of injury.
- Hypercoagulability: The natural response of the body post-surgery is to activate the blood clotting to make sure there is no bleeding. However, this may sometimes be excessive. Surgery results in a state called hypercoagulability, where the blood turns sticky and is more likely to clot. While this may be beneficial in preventing excessive bleeding, it may increase the risk of unusual blood clot formation in the veins.
- Age and Health Factors: Elderly patients, people with obesity, or those with a medical history of blood clots are more likely to develop them. Age plays a crucial role in blood vessels and circulation, and when they are added to other health conditions such as diabetes or cardio-related diseases, it may increase the risk of the formation of a clot. Obesity increases pressure on the veins, which may impair the blood flow.
- Longer Duration of Surgery: Longer surgery duration may make the risk of clot formation and blood pooling greater due to longer immobility periods.
What Are The Tips to Prevent Blood Clots After Orthopedic Surgery?
Prevention is better than cure in the case of mitigating the risk of blood clot formation. Here are some tips on reducing blood clot formation after an orthopedic surgery:
- Medications and Blood Thinners (Anticoagulants): To prevent blood clot formation, healthcare professionals usually prescribe medications such as heparin, warfarin, or newer oral anticoagulants like rivaroxaban. They stop blood clotting by disturbing the body’s natural process of clotting. They may be prescribed for a few weeks to months post-surgery, depending on the risk factors of the patient. A low dosage of aspirin may also be recommended for clot prevention to some patients. Aspirin assists in stopping platelets from sticking together, preventing the risk of clot formation. It is often recommended for patients with a lower risk of DVT.
- Compression Devices: Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (IPC) devices make use of monitored air pressure for gently massaging the legs, enhancing blood circulation, and improving blood flow. These IPCs are commonly used in hospitals. The devices have sleeves that wrap around the legs and inflate at regular intervals, acting like natural muscle contractions, which further improve the blood flow. Elastic stockings are also recommended, as they help in stopping the blood from pooling in the legs. Compression stockings, on the other hand, gently squeeze the legs to enhance the circulation of blood and reduce the risk of blood clots. They are often prescribed to patients before and after the surgery.
- Early Mobilization: Moving as soon as possible after the surgery is essential for reducing the risk of blood clot formation. Short leg exercises and walks can go a long way in reducing the possibility of a blood clot. Patients are often encouraged to start moving within a day of the surgery, even if that means flexing their feet or walking a few steps.
While there are several treatment options for blood clots, such as anticoagulant therapy, thrombolytic therapy, and inferior vena cava filters, it is always recommended to get the expert’s advice immediately after surgery to prevent life-threatening conditions. Taking care of blood clots after a surgery is an essential part of post-operative care. In case of persistent pain, swelling, or redness after orthopedic surgery, consult our expert orthopedic surgeon for personalized guidance on preventing blood clot formation.