DVT Risks Often Ignored

THURSDAY, Jan. 15, 2004 (HealthDayNews) -- Many people at risk for developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) don't get drugs that can prevent the problem, says a study in the Jan. 15 issue of the American Journal of Cardiology.

The study of more than 5,000 people who developed DVT found fewer than 30 percent received preventive therapy in the 30 days before their DVT diagnosis.

The study also found that, when treating people with DVT, doctors often used older treatments instead of drugs proven most effective in treating the disorder.

"Clearly, there is a disconnect between evidence and execution as it relates to DVT prevention and treatment," co-lead investigator Dr. Victor Tapson, an associate professor of medicine at Duke University Medical Center, says in a prepared statement. "The bottom line is that every patient admitted to a hospital ought to be considered for preventive measures."

This study was funded by Aventis Pharmaceuticals, which makes a drug to treat and prevent DVT. Tapson is a paid consultant for Aventis and has conducted research for the company.

DVT is characterized by the formation of blood clots in the deep veins of the legs. DVT can cause death if these clots break free and lodge in the lungs, a condition called pulmonary embolism.

People with cancer, heart failure and obesity are at high risk for DVT, along with elderly patients, people who have had surgery within the previous three months and those who have been immobile in the previous 30 days.

DVT symptoms include swelling and discomfort in the extremities. Low-dose anticoagulants can reduce the risk of DVT. Higher doses of the drugs can treat blood clots once they've formed.

More information

Here's where you can learn more about DVT.