An article came out this past December on the British Medical Journal website. It talked about blood clots following surgery. Contrary to common accepted practices by physicians they are seeing “blood clots” or “DVTs” occurring much longer after surgery than originally thought. After many orthopedic surgeries patients are taking medications to reduce the chance of blood clots that can result in death. Some people are at a higher risk of developing blood clots than others. Keep this in mind when discussing your upcoming orthopedic surgery with your physician. Follow this link to read more about this study: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/12/091203222141.htm
The following is a list of a few things that you can do to reduce the chance of developing clots:
- Keep moving- Get up every two hours during the day
- Pump your ankles in a elevated position above the heart
- Avoid sitting for prolonged periods
- Take your medications
- Call your doctor if you develop- pain,warmth, swelling, or redness
Unfortunately, the signs and symptoms of blood clots are not always easily recognized and be a gradual onset.