Risk factors for venous thromboembolism in patients with spinal cord injury: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2023 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2021.1913561 · Published: January 1, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Cardiovascular Science Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

Patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) are at high risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE) due to factors such as endothelial dysfunction, altered blood flow, and hypercoagulability. This study aimed to identify specific risk factors for VTE in SCI patients, which could help in prevention and treatment strategies. The meta-analysis identified nine significant risk factors including age, sex, paralysis severity, personal/family history, smoking, lack of compression therapy, lower limb/pelvic fracture, paraplegia and diabetes.

Study Duration

inception to July 2020

Participants

2,865 cases of SCI with VTE and 39,488 controls

Evidence Level

Meta-analysis of case-control and cohort studies

Key Findings

1
Middle- and old-age is a significant risk factor for VTE in SCI patients.
2
Male sex is significantly associated with increased risk of VTE in SCI patients.
3
Complete paralysis substantially increases the risk of VTE in SCI patients.

Research Summary

This meta-analysis aimed to clarify risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). The study identified nine risk factors for VTE in SCI patients: middle and old age, male sex, complete paralysis, personal/family history of venous thrombosis, history of smoking, lack of compression therapy, presence of a lower limb/pelvic fracture, paraplegia, and diabetes. Healthcare providers should be aware of these risk factors when rehabilitating patients with SCI to reduce the incidence of VTE.

Practical Implications

Risk Factor Awareness

Healthcare providers should be aware of the identified risk factors for VTE in SCI patients.

Targeted Prevention

Implement targeted prevention strategies based on identified risk factors.

Personalized Rehabilitation

Tailor rehabilitation plans considering individual risk profiles for VTE.

Study Limitations

1
Lack of data for other potential risk factors
2
Small number of studies for some factors
3
Did not differentiate between chronic and acute SCI

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