Critical Update Regarding Varicose Vein Treatment and Blood Clots Prevention

This video represents an up-to-date analysis of risk assessment and the use of anticoagulant prophylaxis in patients undergoing varicose vein procedures. There are several important takeaways regarding treating these patients including an accurate and complete assessment of risk. Most patients are low risk but there are a small percentage of patients with high or very high risk of developing thrombosis, and these patients need protection with anticoagulation. The drugs should be used for a minimum of seven to 10 days, and in some cases up to 30 days. The current studies again point out the failure of a single dose of anticoagulation to alter the incidence of thrombosis. The authors also Suggest modifications to the current Caprini score to include specific elements that are peculiar to varicose vein procedures. Physicians are encouraged to pursue ongoing analysis of their own populations to refine the indications and risk levels of this important group of patients.