Keeping Deadly Blood Clots at Bay After Foot Surgery

Each year in the United States, pulmonary embolisms (PE) kill more people than AIDS, breast cancer and motor vehicle crashes combined. According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, this little-known condition occurs when a blood clot in the leg travels to the lungs, blocking one or more arteries. Most recently, news that tennis star Serena Williams suffered a PE after undergoing surgery is raising awareness about the condition, its risk factors and how to prevent the potentially deadly condition from occurring.

The blood clots that cause PE often originate in the deep veins of the leg, a condition called deep vein thrombosis or DVT. Women are at the highest risk for blood clots and pulmonary embolism, as well as men and women who are overweight, smokers and those taking oral contraceptives. Surgery is also one of the leading causes of blood clots in patients, which means those at highest risk need to be diligent in speaking to their surgeon about their elevated risks so preventive measures can be taken. Patients facing surgery should take note that blood clots in the leg are relatively rare after foot and ankle surgery. In addition, the clots can be prevented with medication and exercise. Depending on a patient’s risk factors, the surgeon may decide to prescribe an anti-clotting medication to prevent DVT. The most common medications are low-molecular weight heparins, which patients inject into their arm, leg or stomach for about two to three weeks after surgery. Patients also would be advised to get up and move around after surgery — even if they are wearing a cast or using crutches.

Symptoms of pulmonary embolisms vary and can mimic those of other conditions such as a heart attack. The most common signs include sudden, unexplained shortness of breath, chest pain and a cough that produces blood-tinged mucus. Other symptoms may include wheezing, leg swelling, excessive sweating, rapid heartbeat and fainting. Pulmonary embolisms can occur quickly, and prompt medical attention is vital for recovery, so patients need to seek care if they are suffering from any of the symptoms associated with the condition.

If you would like more information please visit our website at http://www.drrobertrosenstein.com/ or contact our office, 440-946-5858.