Background/Aims: Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is an important complication of stroke, and its occurrence influences the treatment strategy for stroke, especially regarding the use of antithrombotics.
Objectives: This study aims to assess the occurrence of DVT in Filipino acute stroke patients through lower extremity ultrasound screening. It also aims to characterize this patient population in terms of demographics, vascular risk factors, stroke type and severity, DVT risk assessment, and utilization of DVT prophylaxis during hospitalization.
Methods: This is a prospective, descriptive, and a qualitative study that used a non-randomized consecutive sampling in a period of 3 months.
Results: Forty-six patients participated, with a median age of 56 +/- 13.84 years, comprising 61% males. Majority (72%) of patients had acute ischemic stroke, while the remainder (28%) presented with primary intracerebral hemorrhage. Most patients had moderate stroke severity, with NIHSS scores ranging from 6 to 21 (52%). 48% were categorized as low risk for DVT, while 52% were deemed high risk based on IMPROVE VTE RAM scores. Common risk factors in the high-risk group included lower limb paralysis, immobilization exceeding 7 days, advanced age, and intensive care unit admission. DVT was incidentally detected during screening at 7 days post-ictus. Chronic DVT was present in 4% of patients, while acute DVT was identified in only 2%.
Conclusion: Our study reveals a low incidence of DVT among Filipino acute stroke patients, aligning with existing literature. It underscores the necessity of vigilant monitoring to mitigate DVT risk in high-risk stroke patients.