Diagnosis and treatment of venous thromboembolism during pregnancy and puerperium

Summary

The occurrence of both deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism is already promoted by physiological mechanisms in pregnancy and the postpartum period. Besides pre-existing risk factors, transient phenomena are present during pregnancy that increase the risk of venous thromboembolic disease. The clinical signs of thromboembolism are often non-specific. Diagnostic algorithms have not been tested in pregnant women. Due to the clinical relevance, confirmation of the diagnosis is, however, essential. The medical history, clinical examination and laboratory diagnostics are fundamental components in the diagnostic process, but cannot, on their own, exclude a venous thromboembolism. The technical assessment of the veins by ultrasound is the method of choice with regard to venous thrombosis. This manuscript describes the diagnosis and treatment of venous thromboembolism during pregnancy.

English version available at: www.phlebologieonline.de

Keywords

Thrombosis - pulmonary embolism - thromboembolism - pregnancy

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