Deep-vein thrombosis in pregnancy : a case report
Date
1985
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Health & Medical Publishing Group
Abstract
The incidence of thrombo-embolic complications in
pregnancy varies between 2 and 5 per 1 000 deliveries.
Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) is classically
associated with pulmonary embolism and chronic
venous insufficiency, which are leading causes of
maternal morbidity and mortality. An accurate diagnosis
of iliofemoral or calf vein thrombosis should be
confirmed by either Doppler ultrasonography, impedance
plethysmography or ascending phlebography.
Full-dose continuous intravenous heparin for 5-10
days is the established method of therapy for acute
DVT and pulmonary embolism occurring during pregnancy
or in the puerperium. Thereafter, long-term
treatment with self-administered subcutaneous injections
of heparin in low doses is feasible and effective.
During pregnancy. coumarin administration results
in embryopathy as it readily crosses the placenta; it
should be avoided until after delivery. In view of its
safety and effectiveness, low-dosage intravenous
heparin or heparin by subcutaneous injection seems
to be the anticoagulant of choice for the expectant
mother.
Description
CITATION: Du Toit, D. F., McCormich, M. & Laker, L. 1985. Deep-vein thrombosis in pregnancy : a case report. South African Medical Journal, 67:781-782.
The original publication is available at http://www.samj.org.za
The original publication is available at http://www.samj.org.za
Keywords
Thrombosis, Pregnancy