Can Thromboelastography be Predictive of Venous Thromboembolism After Trauma: A Longitudinal, Prospective, Multi-Institution Study

TEG has shown effectiveness in identification and management of coagulopathies. The role of TEG in hypercoagulability is increasing but remains unclear. We look to assess how TEG parameters vary in high risk trauma patients across their hospital stay. Methods A longitudinal prospective multi-institutional study was performed from September 2020 to June 2022. TEGs were collected on admission, in peri-operative periods and after physical therapy sessions and all TEG parameters were assessed for changes. Results 419 patients on admission were included for analysis. Alpha angle and Maximum amplitude trended upward throughout the continuum of care, while K-time was shortened and LY30 remained on the low end of the normal range. 21 patients developed a VTE during the study period with elevated MA, AA and low K and LY30. Conclusion This study suggests a potential TEG parameter signal in VTE formation, specifically increases in MA and AA with decreases in K and a consistently depressed LY30 in high-risk patients over a continuum of a hospital stay after traumatic injury.