Deep vein thrombosis at King Abdul Aziz University Hospital

OBJECTIVE: To study the incidence of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism at King Abdul Aziz University Hospital. To determine the risk factors, use of different diagnostic modalities, treatment given and to compare our findings with those reported in the literature.

METHODS: Retrospective study which included all cases of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism admitted to the medical ward of King Abdul Aziz University Hospital during the period between January 1994 till March 1999 were analyzed.

RESULTS: Total of 75 patients were diagnosed to have deep vein thrombosis with mean age of 44.16 +/- 14.5 years and male:female ratio of 1:2. Doppler ultrasound was used for the diagnosis in 56 of 75 patients (75%). Pulmonary embolism as a complication of deep vein thrombosis developed in 24 of 75 patients (32%). Prolonged immobilization was found to be the most common risk factor 17 of 75 (23%). All the patients were treated with conventional heparin followed by warfarin.

CONCLUSION: As discussed, our results are comparable with those reported in the literature. Post operative patients who are anticipated to have prolonged immobilization should receive prophylactic anti coagulation with subcutaneous heparin. Thrombophillia screeing should be reserved for those with recurrent deep vein thrombosis or patients with positive family history.