A prospective study on risk assessment and DVT prophylaxis in intensive care unit and patients in wards at tertiary care hospital

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a significant vascular condition, ranking third in morbidity and mortality, primarily affecting hospitalized patients, particularly those undergoing surgery or with underlying medical conditions. This prospective observational study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of DVT risk assessment and prophylaxis in reducing its incidence among hospitalized patients, while examining pharmacological agents and prophylaxis duration across various medical conditions. Conducted on 351 patients in a tertiary care hospital between December 2021 and September 2022, the study recorded DVT risk factors and stratified patients into different risk levels using the Caprini score. Among the patients, 349 were at risk and received prophylaxis, while two were deemed very low risk and did not require prophylaxis. Moderate risk was observed in 185 patients (52.7%), including 48 medically ill and 137 surgical cases. Enoxaparin was the most commonly used prophylactic agent, administered for an average of 7 ± 2 days. Dalteparin was used exclusively in sepsis patients, and physiotherapy emerged as the most common mechanical prophylaxis. Despite receiving both pharmacological and mechanical prophylaxis, two high-risk patients developed DVT. Risk factors such as swollen legs, sepsis, advanced age, high BMI, surgery, and prolonged bed rest compounded the risk. The study underscores the importance of early risk assessment and appropriate prophylaxis to prevent DVT. Further research is needed to optimize pharmacological agent selection and prophylaxis duration across different conditions.