Post-surgery

Your body reacts to the injury of surgery no differently than to an accidental injury. To limit blood loss, it raises coagulation factors in the blood. Unfortunately, this increases the risk of developing blood clots after surgery, which is further amplified by long periods of inactivity during bed rest and the direct impact on blood vessels caused by the surgical procedure. 

DVT (deep vein thrombosis) most commonly occurs if a blood clot in the leg forms in the deep veins of the calf muscles. Less often, it may form in the deep veins of the thigh. It can also sometimes affect arms or block other deep veins within the body. If a part or all of the clot breaks free and travels in the bloodstream to obstruct arteries in the lungs, this can cause a potentially fatal pulmonary embolism (PE). DVT and PE are often referred to collectively as venous thromboembolism (VTE).

When you're resting in bed after surgery, your body moves less and blood will flow a lot slower in your deep veins, which increases the likelihood of clots. Several other factors can elevate the risk of DVT, including:

• Have previously had blood clots
• Smoking 
• Being overweight or obese
• Family history of DVT
• Existing venous disease
• Age
• Using medicines such as birth control or hormone therapy

DVT is often symptomless or may not present with typical symptoms such as pain and swelling in the leg, warm skin, or red or darkened skin around the affected area. If post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) occurs – which is a long-term complication of DVT – patients may suffer from chronic pain, swelling, and skin changes in the affected limb. Patients may also develop severe PTS, which can manifest as venous leg ulcers. The potentially fatal complication of PE (when a clot travels to the lungs) is characterised by symptoms like shortness of breath and chest pain.

Thrombosis prevention can be done in consultation with a doctor and should be carried out as soon as possible after the operation and continued for several weeks afterward. This may involve a combination of anticoagulant medication (such as blood thinners like heparin) and anti-embolism stockings after surgery. The duration for wearing these stockings varies between patients. In addition, it’s advisable to quit smoking, lose weight, drink plenty of liquids, and get as much movement as much as possible, to reduce your risk of developing DVT after surgery. Performing leg lifts in bed, if possible, is also a good way to help the flow of blood in your veins.

Anti-embolism stockings and medical compression stockings both promote healthy blood flow in the legs by applying the greatest pressure at the ankle and gradually decreasing up the leg. However, they are designed for different users and purposes.

Compression stockings

Compression stockings are intended for mobile individuals who are at risk of thrombosis, such as those who have previously had blood clots, are overweight or obese, have a family history of DVT, or have existing venous disease.

Anti-embolism stockings

Anti-embolism stockings are typically prescribed for immobilised post-surgical patients and patients with limited mobility to help prevent DVT. Depending on your medical condition, your doctor might prescribe anticoagulants (blood thinners) around the time of surgery and select the appropriate anti-embolism treatment for your medical needs. Anti-embolism stockings, such as those offered by JOBST, are recommended for reducing the risk of thrombus formation, especially if anticoagulants are contraindicated.

Benefits of anti-embolism stockings:

• Support blood circulation
• Help reduce the risk of DVT
• Can minimise postoperative swelling in the legs

Recognising the risks and complications associated with DVT is vital. If you notice symptoms such as pain, swelling, or skin changes in your leg, seek medical advice promptly. Early intervention can prevent serious complications like PE.