What is the relationship between major surgery and risk factors for DVT?

Major surgery is known to significantly increase the risk for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) due to several factors inherent in the surgical process and the physiological responses of the body.

Firstly, during major surgery, patients often experience prolonged immobility, which can lead to venous stasis or slow blood flow in the veins of the legs. This stagnation of blood increases the likelihood of clot formation. Additionally, surgical procedures are associated with trauma to the tissues, which can activate the coagulation cascade—a series of events that lead to blood clotting. This activation further raises the risk of forming clots in the deep veins.

Patients with other risk factors, such as obesity, age, or a personal or family history of DVT, may find these risks amplified in the context of major surgery. Moreover, the inflammatory response triggered by surgery can contribute to changes in blood properties, making clot formation more likely.

Overall, recognizing the heightened risk of DVT following major surgical procedures is crucial for implementing preventive measures, such as anticoagulants and early mobilization post-surgery, to mitigate this serious complication.