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The prevention of deep vein thrombosis after bone plate fixation needs to be comprehensively carried out from multiple aspects such as early activity, physical intervention, drug prevention, and lifestyle adjustment. The following are specific preventive measures:
First, early activities and functional exercises
Early postoperative activities: If the condition permits, you can try standing beside the bed or walking a short distance within 24 hours after the operation. During the period of bed rest, do ankle pump exercises 10 times per hour, that is, curl and rotate the toes up and down to promote the contraction of the calf muscles and accelerate the return of blood. For patients who are unable to move independently, family members or caregivers can assist in flexing and extending the knee joint and massaging the calf muscles.
Gradually increase the amount of activity: As the body recovers, gradually increase the duration and intensity of activities, such as performing straight leg raising exercises, knee flexion and extension exercises, etc., to promote blood circulation in the lower limbs.
Second, physical prevention
Wearing compression stockings: Choose gradient pressure compression stockings (knee-length or thigh type). When wearing them, make sure they are smooth and free of wrinkles. Do not wear them for more than 12 hours a day. Compression stockings help the venous blood in the lower extremities return by applying appropriate pressure, reducing the retention of blood in the lower extremities and thereby lowering the risk of deep vein thrombosis.
Use an intermittent inflation and compression device: This device periodically inflates and compresses the lower limbs through an airbag, simulating the effect of a muscle pump to reduce blood stasis.
Third, drug prevention
For high-risk patients, doctors may prescribe anticoagulant drugs such as low-molecular-weight heparin, rivaroxaban, heparin sodium, warfarin, etc. It is necessary to strictly follow the doctor’s instructions for medication and avoid adjusting the dosage on your own. Long-term medication users need to regularly monitor their coagulation function and observe for any bleeding tendencies (such as gum bleeding and subcutaneous ecchymosis).
Fourth, lifestyle and dietary adjustments
Controlling weight: Obesity increases venous pressure in the lower extremities. It is recommended to control weight through a low-fat and high-fiber diet. Reduce the intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods, increase the proportion of vegetables, fruits and whole grains, and maintain a balanced diet structure.
Drink plenty of water: Consume at least 1500ml of water daily, which helps maintain the normal dilution of blood, reduces blood viscosity, and lowers the risk of thrombosis. At the same time, excessive drinking should be avoided to prevent aggravating blood concentration.
Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake: Nicotine and alcohol can damage the inner lining of blood vessels and increase the risk of thrombosis. It is recommended to quit smoking and limit alcohol intake, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Fifth, other preventive measures
Avoid lower limb trauma: Lower limb trauma may cause damage to the blood vessel walls, thereby increasing the risk of deep vein thrombosis. Therefore, in daily life, one should avoid lower limb trauma or compression.
Observe the condition of the limbs: After the surgery, it is necessary to frequently observe the swelling of the limbs. If you notice any swelling, pain, or bluish skin, inform the medical staff promptly. At the same time, avoid intravenous injection on the surgical side of the limb to prevent phlebitis.