Perioperative DVT: Why Certain Surgeries Raise Your Blood Clot Risk
When you are planning for a major surgery, there is one risk that often goes unspoken — Deep Vein Thrombosis, or DVT. DVT is a condition where a blood clot forms inside a deep vein, most often in the legs. If that clot travels to the lungs, it becomes a pulmonary embolism — a serious, life-threatening emergency.
Dr. Nikhila Pachani, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist at Backbone Medicity Hospital, Rajkot, has shared an important health awareness message: certain surgeries significantly increase the risk of DVT, and patients need to be aware before going under the knife.
Which Surgeries Carry a Higher DVT Risk?
Not all surgeries carry the same level of risk. According to Dr. Pachani, the following types of procedures are associated with a higher chance of blood clot formation:
- Orthopaedic surgeries – such as hip replacement and knee replacement
- Major abdominal surgeries – such as stomach or liver operations
- Cardiac surgeries – such as bypass surgery and heart valve replacement
- Pelvic surgeries – such as hysterectomy or caesarean section
- Cancer-related surgeries – such as tumour removal and lymph node procedures
During and after these surgeries, blood flow can slow down, blood vessels may be injured, and the body's clotting system becomes more active. Together, these factors create the right conditions for a clot to form.
What Are the Warning Signs of DVT?
After surgery, watch out for:
- Swelling, pain, or warmth in one leg
- Redness or discolouration of the skin on the leg
- Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain (call emergency services immediately)
How Can DVT Be Prevented?
The good news is that DVT after surgery is largely preventable. Prevention options may include blood-thinning medicines (anticoagulants) such as apixaban, rivaroxaban, dabigatran, or warfarin — as prescribed by your doctor. Compression stockings, early walking after surgery, and leg exercises are also commonly recommended.
The key is to speak to your cardiologist or surgeon before your operation so a personalised prevention plan can be put in place.
A Note for Patients in Rajkot and Gujarat
Awareness about perioperative DVT is still low among many patients across Gujarat. Dr. Pachani's message is simple: do not wait for symptoms to appear. If you or a family member is scheduled for any major surgery, ask your doctor about DVT risk and prevention steps in advance.
If you have concerns about blood clot risk related to an upcoming surgery, consider booking a consultation with a qualified cardiologist for personalised guidance.