Anderson iand Spencer published an article in Circulation in 2003 identifying strong risk factors, moderate risk factors and weak risk factors for the development of deep vein thrombosis and venous thromboembolism.
Strong risk factors are factors that increase the odds ratio or the ratio of developing deep vein thrombosis and venous thromboembolism by a factor of 10. These include fracture of the hip or leg, hip or knee replacement, major general surgery, major trauma and spinal cord injury.
Moderate risk factors have an odds ratio between 2 and 9, indicating an increased risk by 2 to 9 fold. These include arthroscopic knee surgery, the presence of central venous lines, chemotherapy, congestive heart failure, respiratory failure, hormone replacement therapy, cancers, the use of oral contraceptive agents, paralytic stroke, being pregnant, previous episodes of venous thromboembolism and thrombophilia.
Weak risk factors for deep vein thrombosis and venous thromboembolism are bed rest for more than three days, immobility during car or air travel, increasing age, laparoscopic surgery, obesity and the presence of varicose veins.
For the diagnosis and treatment of deep vein thrombosis and venous thrombembolia contact Hratch Karamanoukian, MD FACS at
the Vein Treatment Center with offices in Williamsville, New York and Clarence, New York. Dr. Karamanoukian can be contacted through www.VeinsVeinsVeins.com and www.VeinGuide.com or by calling 716-839-3638.
Hratch Karamanoukian, FACS is triple board certified in surgery, thoracic surgery (cardiovascular surgery) and phlebology (diseases of the venous system and lymphatic system).