Risk of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in urogynecologic surgical patients

Abstract

Objective: We sought to determine the incidence of symptomatic deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, collectively referred to as venous thromboembolic events (VTE), in patients undergoing urogynecologic surgery to guide development of a VTE prophylaxis policy for this patient population.

Study design: We conducted a retrospective analysis of VTE incidence among women undergoing urogynecologic surgery over a 3-year period. All patients wore sequential compression devices intraoperatively through hospital discharge.

Results: Forty of 1104 patients (3.6%) undergoing urogynecologic surgery were evaluated with chest computed tomography, lower extremity ultrasound, or both for suspicion of VTE postoperatively. The overall rate of venous thromboembolism in this population was 0.3% (95% confidence interval, 0.1-0.8).

Conclusion: Most women undergoing incontinence and reconstructive pelvic surgery are at a low risk for VTE. Sequential compression devices appear to provide adequate VTE prophylaxis in this patient population.