How May Healthcare Providers Reduce the Risk and/or Treat DVT and PE?
Primary prevention measures for DVT may include at-risk patient identification, and a proper diet and exercise regime. Effective prophylaxis and treatment options exist for both deep-vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Anticoagulants, or blood-thinning drugs, are commonly used to reduce the risk of and treat DVT. These agents work by altering the body’s normal blood-clotting process and may help to reduce the risk of PE. Either modulating activation of blood coagulation or preventing venous stasis achieves this prophylaxis. Low-dose subcutaneous heparin, intermittent pneumatic compression of the legs, oral anticoagulants, adjusted doses of subcutaneous heparin, graduated compression stockings, and low-molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) have shown positive results in reducing PE. For more information on DVT, click here. Created: 2/27/2003  – American Public Health Association Reviewed: 2/27/2003  – Donnica Moore, M.D.
