A systematic review and meta-analysis of the epidemiology and burden of venous thromboembolism among pregnant women

Guideline-based venous thromboprophylaxis in postpartum women: An in-depth evaluation of ACOG and RCOG recommendations and real-life implementation

OBJECTIVES

Venous thromboembolism is one of the most serious complications of the postpartum period, and international societies have various thromboprophylaxis guidelines for its prevention. This study compares postpartum venous thromboprophylaxis recommendations from the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (RCOG) with real-life clinical practices.

STUDY DESIGN

Data analysis of 1000 postpartum women at a tertiary care center focused on patient demographics, venous thromboembolism risk factors, and clinical thromboprophylaxis practices. Patient-specific risk factors were compared between ACOG and RCOG guidelines, assessing Low-Molecular-Weight-Heparin dosages and durations. Guideline compliance, undertreatment/overtreatment rates, and the required number of prefilled Low-Molecular-Weight-Heparin syringes were evaluated.

RESULTS

Significant discrepancies were observed between ACOG and RCOG guidelines, particularly in Low Molecular Weight Heparin dosages and durations. Consensus rates with clinical approaches were around 53%, with inconsistencies leaning towards undertreatment (RCOG) and overtreatment (ACOG). The number of required prefilled Low-Molecular-Weight-Heparin syringes was notably higher according to RCOG compared to ACOG guidelines.

CONCLUSION

Postpartum Venous thromboembolism prophylaxis guidelines from American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists exhibit substantial differences, leading to variations in clinical practice. Further research on the significance of Venous thromboembolism risk factors is essential for improving risk assessment tools and refining guideline recommendations for pregnancy-related Venous thromboembolism prevention.

Antithrombin testing and treatment in pregnancy: Their real-world relationship to clinical outcomes

BACKGROUND

Antithrombin (AT) deficiency is a severe thrombophilia associated with increased rates of maternal morbidity, mortality, and greater healthcare resource utilization during pregnancy and postpartum.

METHODS

Two large U.S. healthcare databases were queried for women aged 15-44 with delivery-related encounters: Cerner Real-World Data (CRWD, 01/01/2000-12/31/2021) and Premier Healthcare Database (PHD, 01/01/2016-01/01/2019). Individuals receiving cardiopulmonary bypass were excluded. Three cohorts were created: 1) Individuals who had AT levels tested any time between 9-months pre- through 3-months post-delivery (CRWD Test Cohort); 2) individuals prescribed AT concentrate (ATc) within 1-year pre- or 1-year post-delivery in CRWD (CRWD Medication Cohort); and 3) the same criteria as 2) applied to PHD (PHD Medication Cohort).

RESULTS

There were 5411 individuals in the CRWD Test Cohort, 13 in the CRWD Medication Cohort and 38 in the PHD Medication Cohort. Demographic and baseline clinical characteristics were similar across cohorts. AT level testing occurred pre-delivery in 47.9 % of the CRWD Test Cohort and 23.1 % of the CRWD Medication Cohort. ATc was administered during the delivery hospitalization to 0.1 %, 23.1 % and 50.0 % of the CRWD Test, CRWD Medication, and PHD Medication Cohorts, respectively. Across cohorts, 5.4-7.9 % of individuals experienced thrombosis during the delivery-related encounter. Mean (SD) total costs for delivery through 1-year post-delivery were $190,894 ($276,893) with $123,763 ($177,122) of total costs related to abnormal coagulation.

CONCLUSION

Opportunities exist to enhance the care of pregnant individuals with low AT levels throughout pregnancy, aiming for optimal maternal outcomes.

Venous thromboembolism in pregnancy and postpartum: an illustrated review

The topic of this review is venous thromboembolism (VTE) during pregnancy and postpartum. The following topics will be addressed: epidemiology and pathophysiology of VTE in pregnancy and postpartum, diagnostic considerations for VTE in pregnancy, indications for prophylactic and therapeutic anticoagulation in pregnancy and postpartum, choice of anticoagulation in pregnancy and breastfeeding, anticoagulation management during labor and delivery, and anticoagulation considerations for assisted reproductive technology.

Hormonal Contraception and Menstrual Cycle Control at High Altitude: A Scoping Review-UIAA Medical Commission Recommendations

Horakova, Lenka , Susi Kriemler, Vladimír Študent, Jacqueline Pichler Hefti, David Hillebrandt, Dominique Jean, Kastė Mateikaitė-Pipirienė, Peter Paal, Alison Rosier, Marija Andjelkovic, Beth Beidlemann, Mia Derstine, and Linda E. Keyes. Hormonal contraception and menstrual cycle control at high altitude: a scoping review-UIAA Medical Commission recommendations. High Alt Med Biol. 00:00-00, 2024. Background: Women who use hormonal contraception (HC) may have questions about their use during travel to high altitude. This scoping review summarizes current evidence on the efficacy and safety of HC and cycle control during high-altitude travel. Methods: We performed a scoping review for the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA) Medical Commission series on Women's Health in the Mountains. Pertinent literature from PubMed and Cochrane was identified by keyword search combinations (including contraception) with additional publications found by hand search. Results: We identified 17 studies from 7,165 potentially eligible articles. No articles assessed the efficacy of contraception during a short-term high-altitude sojourn. Current data show no advantage or disadvantage in HC users for acclimatization or acute mountain sickness (AMS). Use of HC during high-altitude travel is common and safe for menses suppression. A potential concern of estrogen-containing HC is the increased thrombotic risk, which theoretically could be compounded in hypobaric hypoxia. Conclusions: Evidence is limited for the interaction of HC and high altitude on performance, thrombosis, and contraceptive efficacy. HC does not affect the risk of AMS. The most efficacious and safest method at high altitude is generally the one women are most familiar with and already using.

Diagnostic strategies in postpartum individuals with suspected venous thromboembolism: A scoping review

BACKGROUND

The risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) is increased postpartum and contributes to important morbidity and mortality. While there have been advances in evaluating diagnostic algorithms for suspected VTE during pregnancy, there is limited data for postpartum individuals.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a scoping review to describe and evaluate diagnostic strategies used to investigate suspected VTE in postpartum individuals.

METHODS

A comprehensive search strategy was conducted in Ovid MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (January 1, 2000-September 30, 2022) to identify original articles that reported on diagnostic strategies in postpartum individuals with suspected VTE. We extracted demographics, clinical decision rules used, D-dimer and imaging completed, including test performance and VTE outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 13 studies conducted across 11 countries with separate postpartum data were included for 759 individuals with suspected PE (n = 634) or DVT (n = 125), including unpublished data (n = 251). Among those with suspected PE, computed tomography pulmonary angiography was conducted more commonly (n = 522) than ventilation-perfusion scans (n = 69), with PE positivity rates that ranged from 4 %-27.6 % and 0-50 % across studies, respectively. Among 131 postpartum individuals with suspected PE who had a D-dimer measured, only 4.6 % (6/131) had a negative D-dimer test. For postpartum individuals with suspected DVT, the most common diagnostic test was compression ultrasonography (positivity rate 12.2 %-18.6 %). There were limited retrospective data evaluating the clinical decision rules.

CONCLUSIONS

There are heterogeneous approaches globally in the diagnosis of suspected postpartum VTE. Limited high-quality data available underscores the need for more robust evidence to inform clinical practice.

Estimating the value of future research into thromboprophylaxis for women during pregnancy and after delivery: a value of information analysis

BACKGROUND

Risk assessment models (RAMs) are used to select women at increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) during pregnancy and the puerperium for thromboprophylaxis.

OBJECTIVES

To estimate the value of potential future studies that would reduce the decision uncertainty associated with offering thromboprophylaxis according to available RAMs in the following groups: high-risk antepartum women (eg, prior VTE), unselected postpartum women, and postpartum women with risk factors (obesity or cesarean delivery).

METHODS

A decision-analytic model was developed to simulate clinical outcomes, lifetime costs, and quality-adjusted life-years for different thromboprophylaxis strategies, including thromboprophylaxis for all, thromboprophylaxis for none, and RAM-based thromboprophylaxis. The expected value of perfect information analysis was used to determine which factors are associated with high decision uncertainty. The value of future research studies was estimated using expected value of sample information analysis. Costs were assessed from a health and social services perspective.

RESULTS

The expected value of perfect information analysis identified high decision uncertainty for high-risk antepartum women (£21.8 million) and obese postpartum women (£13.4 million), which was largely attributable to uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of thromboprophylaxis in reducing VTE. A randomized controlled trial of thromboprophylaxis compared with none in obese postpartum women is likely to have substantial value (£2.8 million; 300 participants per arm). A trial in women with previous VTE would have higher value but would be less acceptable.

CONCLUSION

Future research should focus on estimating the effectiveness of thromboprophylaxis in obese postpartum women with additional risk factors who have not had a previous VTE.

Thromboprophylaxis during pregnancy and the puerperium: a systematic review and economic evaluation to estimate the value of future research

Background

Pharmacological prophylaxis to prevent venous thromboembolism is currently recommended for women assessed as being at high risk of venous thromboembolism during pregnancy or in the 6 weeks after delivery (the puerperium). The decision to provide thromboprophylaxis involves weighing the benefits, harms and costs, which vary according to the individual's venous thromboembolism risk. It is unclear whether the United Kingdom's current risk stratification approach could be improved by further research.

Objectives

To quantify the current decision uncertainty associated with selecting women who are pregnant or in the puerperium for thromboprophylaxis and to estimate the value of one or more potential future studies that would reduce that uncertainty, while being feasible and acceptable to patients and clinicians.

Methods

A decision-analytic model was developed which was informed by a systematic review of risk assessment models to predict venous thromboembolism in women who are pregnant or in the puerperium. Expected value of perfect information analysis was used to determine which factors are associated with high decision uncertainty and should be the target of future research. To find out whether future studies would be acceptable and feasible, we held workshops with women who have experienced a blood clot or have been offered blood-thinning drugs and surveyed healthcare professionals. Expected value of sample information analysis was used to estimate the value of potential future research studies.

Results

The systematic review included 17 studies, comprising 19 unique externally validated risk assessment models and 1 internally validated model. Estimates of sensitivity and specificity were highly variable ranging from 0% to 100% and 5% to 100%, respectively. Most studies had unclear or high risk of bias and applicability concerns. The decision analysis found that there is substantial decision uncertainty regarding the use of risk assessment models to select high-risk women for antepartum prophylaxis and obese postpartum women for postpartum prophylaxis. The main source of decision uncertainty was uncertainty around the effectiveness of thromboprophylaxis for preventing venous thromboembolism in women who are pregnant or in the puerperium. We found that a randomised controlled trial of thromboprophylaxis in obese postpartum women is likely to have substantial value and is more likely to be acceptable and feasible than a trial recruiting women who have had a previous venous thromboembolism. In unselected postpartum women and women following caesarean section, the poor performance of risk assessment models meant that offering prophylaxis based on these models had less favourable cost effectiveness with lower decision uncertainty.

Limitations

The performance of the risk assessment model for obese postpartum women has not been externally validated.

Conclusions

Future research should focus on estimating the efficacy of pharmacological thromboprophylaxis in pregnancy and the puerperium, and clinical trials would be more acceptable in women who have not had a previous venous thromboembolism.

Study registration

This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42020221094.

Funding

This award was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme (NIHR award ref: NIHR131021) and is published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 28, No. 9. See the NIHR Funding and Awards website for further award information.

Season of delivery and risk of venous thromboembolism during hospitalization among pregnant women

Background

Seasons were found to be related to the occurrences of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in hospitalized patients. No previous study has explored whether seasons were associated with VTE risk in pregnant women. This study aimed to investigate the relationships between the season of delivery and VTE risk during hospitalization among pregnant women.

Methods

This is a multi-center retrospective cohort study of pregnant women. Participants were those who delivered at seven designated sites in Hubei Province, China, during the period from January 2017 to December 2022. They were categorized according to their season/month of delivery. Information on new-onset VTE during hospitalization was followed.

Results

Approximately 0.28% (104/37,778) of the pregnant women developed new-onset VTE during hospitalization for delivery. After adjustment, compared with participants in the spring group, participants in the summer, autumn, and winter groups had an increased risk of VTE during hospitalization. The ORs were 2.59 [1.30, 5.15], 2.83 [1.43, 5.60], and 2.35 [1.17, 4.75] for the summer, autumn, and winter groups, respectively. Pregnant women in the combined group (summer + autumn + winter) had an increased risk of VTE during hospitalization than those in the spring group (OR, 2.59 [1.39, 4.85]). By restricting the analyses among pregnant women without in vitro fertilization, gestational diabetes mellitus, and preterm, the results still remained robust. Compared with participants who delivered in March, April, and May, participants who delivered in June, July, September, November, December, and February had a higher risk of VTE during hospitalization.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that pregnant women who delivered in summer, autumn, and winter had an increased VTE risk during hospitalization compared with those who delivered in spring.

Decision Analysis in SHared decision making for Thromboprophylaxis during Pregnancy (DASH-TOP): a sequential explanatory mixed-methods pilot study

OBJECTIVES

To gain insight into formal methods of integrating patient preferences and clinical evidence to inform treatment decisions, we explored patients' experience with a personalised decision analysis intervention, for prophylactic low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) in the antenatal period.

DESIGN

Mixed-methods explanatory sequential pilot study.

SETTING

Hospitals in Canada (n=1) and Spain (n=4 sites). Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we conducted part of the study virtually.

PARTICIPANTS

15 individuals with a prior venous thromboembolism who were pregnant or planning pregnancy and had been referred for counselling regarding LMWH.

INTERVENTION

A shared decision-making intervention that included three components: (1) direct choice exercise; (2) preference elicitation exercises and (3) personalised decision analysis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire to evaluate decision quality (decisional conflict, self-efficacy and satisfaction). Semistructured interviews were then conducted to explore their experience and perceptions of the decision-making process.

RESULTS

Participants in the study appreciated the opportunity to use an evidence-based decision support tool that considered their personal values and preferences and reported feeling more prepared for their consultation. However, there were mixed reactions to the standard gamble and personalised treatment recommendation. Some participants could not understand how to complete the standard gamble exercises, and others highlighted the need for more informative ways of presenting results of the decision analysis.

CONCLUSION

Our results highlight the challenges and opportunities for those who wish to incorporate decision analysis to support shared decision-making for clinical decisions.

Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine Consult Series #67: Maternal sepsis

Maternal sepsis is a significant cause of maternal morbidity and mortality, and is a potentially preventable cause of maternal death. This Consult aims to summarize what is known about sepsis and provide guidance for the management of sepsis during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Most studies cited are from the nonpregnant population, but where available, pregnancy data are included. The following are the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine recommendations: (1) we recommend that clinicians consider the diagnosis of sepsis in pregnant or postpartum patients with otherwise unexplained end-organ damage in the presence of a suspected or confirmed infectious process, regardless of the presence of fever (GRADE 1C); (2) we recommend that sepsis and septic shock in pregnancy be considered medical emergencies and that treatment and resuscitation begin immediately (Best Practice); (3) we recommend that hospitals and health systems use a performance improvement program for sepsis in pregnancy with sepsis screening tools and metrics (GRADE 1B); (4) we recommend that institutions develop their own procedures and protocols for the detection of maternal sepsis, avoiding the use of a single screening tool alone (GRADE 1B); (5) we recommend obtaining tests to evaluate for infectious and noninfectious causes of life-threatening organ dysfunction in pregnant and postpartum patients with possible sepsis (Best Practice); (6) we recommend that an evaluation for infectious causes in pregnant or postpartum patients in whom sepsis is suspected or identified includes appropriate microbiologic cultures, including blood, before starting antimicrobial therapy, as long as there are no substantial delays in timely administration of antibiotics (Best Practice); (7) we recommend obtaining a serum lactate level in pregnant or postpartum patients in whom sepsis is suspected or identified (GRADE 1B); (8) in pregnant or postpartum patients with septic shock or a high likelihood of sepsis, we recommend administration of empiric broad-spectrum antimicrobial therapy, ideally within 1 hour of recognition (GRADE 1C); (9) after a diagnosis of sepsis in pregnancy is made, we recommend rapid identification or exclusion of an anatomic source of infection and emergency source control when indicated (Best Practice); (10) we recommend early intravenous administration (within the first 3 hours) of 1 to 2 L of balanced crystalloid solutions in sepsis complicated by hypotension or suspected organ hypoperfusion (GRADE 1C); (11) we recommend the use of a balanced crystalloid solution as a first-line fluid for resuscitation in pregnant and postpartum patients with sepsis or septic shock (GRADE 1B); (12) we recommend against the use of starches or gelatin for resuscitation in pregnant and postpartum patients with sepsis or septic shock (GRADE 1A); (13) we recommend ongoing, detailed evaluation of the patient's response to fluid resuscitation guided by dynamic measures of preload (GRADE 1B); (14) we recommend the use of norepinephrine as the first-line vasopressor during pregnancy and the postpartum period with septic shock (GRADE 1C); (15) we suggest using intravenous corticosteroids in pregnant or postpartum patients with septic shock who continue to require vasopressor therapy (GRADE 2B); (16) because of an increased risk of venous thromboembolism in sepsis and septic shock, we recommend the use of pharmacologic venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in pregnant and postpartum patients in septic shock (GRADE 1B); (17) we suggest initiating insulin therapy at a glucose level >180 mg/dL in critically ill pregnant patients with sepsis (GRADE 2C); (18) if a uterine source for sepsis is suspected or confirmed, we recommend prompt delivery or evacuation of uterine contents to achieve source control, regardless of gestational age (GRADE 1C); and (19) because of an increased risk of physical, cognitive, and emotional problems in survivors of sepsis and septic shock, we recommend ongoing comprehensive support for pregnant and postpartum sepsis survivors and their families (Best Practice).

Venous Thromboembolism in Pregnancy: Challenges and Solutions

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a serious medical condition that can lead to severe morbidity and mortality, making it a significant public health concern. VTE is a multifactorial condition that results from the interaction of genetic, acquired, and environmental factors. Physiological changes during pregnancy increase the risk of VTE as they express Virchow's triad (increased coagulation factors, decreased fibrinolysis, trauma, and venous stasis). Moreover, pregnancy-related risk factors, such as advanced maternal age, obesity, multiple gestations, and cesarean delivery, further increase the risk of VTE. Managing VTE in pregnancy is challenging due to the complexity of balancing the risks and benefits of anticoagulant therapy for both the mother and the fetus. A multidisciplinary approach involving obstetricians, hematologists, and neonatologists, is necessary to ensure optimal outcomes for both the mother and baby. This review aims to discuss the current challenges associated with VTE in pregnancy and identify potential solutions for improving outcomes for pregnant women at risk for VTE.

Physical disability and venous thromboembolism during pregnancy and the postpartum period: a population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Pregnancy and the postpartum period are a high-risk time for venous thromboembolism (VTE). Decreased mobility is also a major risk factor. However, the risk of peripregnancy VTE among individuals with physical disabilities is unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the risk of peripregnancy VTE between people with a physical disability and those without a physical disability.

METHODS

This population-based cohort study comprised all births in Ontario, Canada, from 2007 to 2018. Physical disability was defined as a condition diagnosed before conception that was likely to result in restricted mobility. Modified Poisson regression was used to compare the risk of VTE during pregnancy and up to 6 weeks postpartum between people with a physical disability and those without a physical disability. Adjusted relative risks (aRRs) were calculated, controlling for demographics, history of VTE, thrombophilia, and other comorbidities. An additional analysis was used to evaluate the risk of peripregnancy VTE among people with physical disabilities who used a mobility aid.

RESULTS

Of 1 220 822 eligible people, 13 791 (1.1%) had a physical disability. VTE occurred during pregnancy or up to 6 weeks of the postpartum period in 0.85% of the individuals with a physical disability and 0.47% of those without a physical disability (aRR, 1.52; 95% CI, 1.26-1.83). The rate of VTE was notably higher in those with a physical disability requiring a mobility aid (3.0%), generating an aRR of 3.05 (95% CI, 1.45-6.41), than in those without a physical disability.

CONCLUSION

Pregnant people with a physical disability, especially those using a mobility aid, are at an increased risk of VTE. Anticoagulant prophylaxis could be considered in this group, especially in the presence of additional risk factors.

Specific changes and clinical significance of plasma D-dimer during pregnancy and puerperium: a prospective study

BACKGROUND

Pregnant and puerperal women are high-risk populations for developing venous thromboembolism (VTE). Plasma D-dimer (D-D) is of good value in the diagnosis of exclusion of VTE in the nonpregnant population. Since there is no consensus reference range of plasma D-D applicable to pregnant and puerperal women, the application of plasma D-D is limited. To investigate the change characteristics and the reference range of plasma D-D levels during pregnancy and puerperium and to explore the pregnancy- and childbirth-related factors affecting plasma D-D levels and the diagnostic efficacy of plasma D-D for excluding VTE during early puerperium after caesarean section.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was conducted with 514 pregnant and puerperal women (cohort 1), and 29 puerperal women developed VTE 24-48 h after caesarean section (cohort 2). In cohort 1, the effects of the pregnancy- and childbirth-related factors on the plasma D-D levels were analyzed by comparing the differences in plasma D-D levels between different groups and between different subgroups. The 95th percentiles were calculated to establish the unilateral upper limits of the plasma D-D levels. The plasma D-D levels at 24-48 h postpartum were compared between normal singleton pregnant and puerperal women in cohort 2 and women from the cesarean section subgroup in cohort 1, binary logistic analysis was used to analyze the relevance between plasma D-D level and the risk of VTE developing 24-48 h after caesarean section, and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to assess the diagnostic efficacy of plasma D-D for excluding VTE during early puerperium after caesarean section.

RESULTS

The 95% reference ranges of plasma D-D levels in the normal singleton pregnancy group were ≤ 1.01 mg/L in the first trimester, ≤ 3.17 mg/L in the second trimester, ≤ 5.35 mg/L in the third trimester, ≤ 5.47 mg/L at 24-48 h postpartum, and ≤ 0.66 mg/L at 42 days postpartum. The plasma D-D levels of the normal twin pregnancy group were significantly higher than those of the normal singleton pregnancy group during pregnancy (P < 0.05), the plasma D-D levels of the GDM group in the third trimester were significantly higher than those of the normal singleton pregnancy group (P < 0.05). The plasma D-D levels of the advanced age subgroup at 24-48 h postpartum were significantly higher than those of the nonadvanced age subgroup (P < 0.05), and the plasma D-D levels of the caesarean section subgroup at 24-48 h postpartum were significantly higher than those of the vaginal delivery subgroup (P < 0.05). The plasma D-D level was significantly correlated with the risk of VTE developing at 24-48 h after caesarean section (OR = 2.252, 95% CI: 1.611-3.149). The optimal cut-off value of plasma D-D for the diagnosis of exclusion of VTE during early puerperium after caesarean section was 3.24 mg/L. The negative predictive value for the diagnosis of exclusion of VTE was 96.1%, and the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.816, P < 0.001.

CONCLUSIONS

The thresholds of plasma D-D levels in normal singleton pregnancy and parturient women were higher than those of nonpregnant women. Plasma D-D had good value in the diagnosis of exclusion of VTE occurring during early puerperium after caesarean section. Further studies are needed to validate these reference ranges and assess the effects of pregnancy- and childbirth-related factors on plasma D-D levels and the diagnostic efficacy of plasma D-D for excluding VTE during pregnancy and puerperium.

Epidemiology and prevention of venous thromboembolism

Venous thromboembolism, that consists of the interrelated conditions deep-vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, is an under-appreciated vascular disease. In Western regions, approximately 1 in 12 individuals will be diagnosed with venous thromboembolism in their lifetime. Rates of venous thromboembolism are lower in Asia, but data from other regions are sparse. Numerous risk factors for venous thromboembolism have been identified, which can be classified as acute or subacute triggers (provoking factors that increase the risk of venous thromboembolism) and basal or acquired risk factors (which can be modifiable or static). Approximately 20% of individuals who have a venous thromboembolism event die within 1 year (although often from the provoking condition), and complications are common among survivors. Fortunately, opportunities exist for primordial prevention (prevention of the development of underlying risk factors), primary prevention (management of risk factors among individuals at high risk of the condition) and secondary prevention (prevention of recurrent events) of venous thromboembolism. In this Review, we describe the epidemiology of venous thromboembolism, including the incidence, risk factors, outcomes and opportunities for prevention. Meaningful health disparities exist in both the incidence and outcomes of venous thromboembolism. We also discuss these disparities as well as opportunities to reduce them.

Incidence and prognosis of superficial vein thrombosis during pregnancy and the post-partum period: a Danish nationwide cohort study

BACKGROUND

The incidence of superficial vein thrombosis (SVT) of the legs and the subsequent risk of venous thromboembolism during pregnancy and the post-partum period is unknown. To better understand the clinical course of SVT during these times, we aimed to estimate the incidence rate of SVT during pregnancy and in the post-partum period, as well as the risk of subsequent venous thromboembolism.

METHODS

In this nationwide cohort study, we collected data on all pregnant women who delivered between Jan 1, 1997, and Dec 31, 2017, in Denmark were extracted from the Danish Medical Birth Register, the Danish National Patient Registry, and the Danish National Prescription Registry. Data on ethnicity were not available. Incidence rates per 1000 person-years were calculated for each trimester and the antepartum and post-partum period. Among women with a pregnancy-related SVT, risk of subsequent venous thromboembolism within the same pregnancy or post-partum period were calculated and compared with a matched cohort of pregnant women without SVT using Cox proportional hazards analysis.

FINDINGS

During 1 276 046 deliveries, 710 diagnoses of lower extremity SVT occurred from conception up to 12 weeks postpartum (0·6 per 1000 person-years [95% CI 0·5-0·6]). The incidence rates of SVT per 1000 person-years were 0·1 (95% CI 0·1-0·2) during the during the first trimester, 0·2 (0·2-0·3) during the second trimester, and 0·5 (0·5-0·6) during the third trimester. The incidence rate was 1·6 per 1000 person-years (95% CI 1·4-1·7) during the post-partum period. Of the 211 women with antepartum SVT included in the analysis, 22 (10·4%) were diagnosed with venous thromboembolism, compared with 25 (0·1%) in women without SVT (hazard ratio 83·3 [95% CI 46·3-149·7]).

INTERPRETATION

The incidence rate of SVT during pregnancy and the post-partum period was low. However, if SVT during pregnancy was diagnosed, the risk of developing venous thromboembolism during the same pregnancy was high. These results might help physicians and patients to make decisions about anticoagulant management of pregnancy-related SVT.

FUNDING

None.

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells accelerate angiogenesis in pregnant experimentally induced deep venous thrombosis rat model via up-regulation of pro-angiogenic secretogranin II

The present study investigated whether bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) facilitate angiogenesis and improve outcomes of pregnancy with obstetric deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and explored the underlying mechanism. A pregnant DVT rat model was established using a "stenosis" method on the lower segment of the inferior vena cava (IVC). The extent of vascularization in thrombosed IVC was examined by immunohistochemistry. In addition, the effect of BMMSCs on DVT pregnancy outcomes was evaluated. We also characterized the effect of BMMSC-derived conditioned medium (BM-CM) on the impaired human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Thereafter, transcriptome sequencing was employed to identify the differentially expressed genes in thrombosed IVC tissues of DVT and DVT plus BMMSCs (thrice) groups. Lastly, the candidate gene's role in the promotion of angiogenesis was demonstrated in vitro and in vivo. The DVT model was successfully established using IVC stenosis. The injection of three consecutive BMMSC doses into pregnant SD rats with DVT was demonstrated to be the most effective treatment, which significantly reduced the length and weight of the thrombus, induced the highest level of angiogenesis, and ameliorated the embryo absorption rate. In vitro, BM-CM efficiently increased the abilities of impaired endothelial cells to proliferate, migrate, invade, and form vessel-like tubes, while inhibiting their apoptosis. Transcriptome sequencing revealed that BMMSCs induced a prominent upregulation of a variety of pro-angiogenic genes, including secretogranin II (SCG2). When SCG2 expression was knocked down by lentivirus, the BMMSCs' and BM-CM-induced pro-angiogenic effects on pregnant DVT rats and HUVECs were markedly attenuated. In conclusion, the study results suggest that BMMSCs enhance angiogenesis via up-regulation of SCG2, providing an effective alternative regenerative agent and novel target for the therapy of obstetric DVT.

Maternal and neonatal outcomes in women with a history of chemotherapy exposure: a population-based study of 8 million obstetric admissions

PURPOSE

With improvement in cancer care and fertility preservation, increasing numbers of cancer survivors are requiring obstetrical care. The objective of our study was to evaluate the effect of history of chemotherapy exposure on maternal and neonatal outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective population-based cohort study was conducted using the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project-Nationwide Inpatient Sample (HCUP-NIS) to obtain data on maternal and newborn outcomes in a cohort of births occurring between the years 2006 and 2015. The annual and overall prevalence of chemotherapy exposure was calculated among pregnant women, and multivariate logistic regression models were used to estimate the effect of history of exposure to chemotherapy on the risk of adverse maternal and newborn outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 7,907,139 birth admissions, 613 had a history of chemotherapy exposure for an overall incidence of 7.75 per 100,000 admissions. The prevalence of chemotherapy exposure in pregnancy increased during the study period (P < 0.001). Women with a history of chemotherapy were more likely to suffer from obstetric and medical complications including pre-eclampsia, chorioamnionitis, postpartum hemorrhage, and venous thromboembolism as well as an increased risk in overall mortality (OR 9.39, 95% CI 1.31-67.32). No differences were observed in the incidence of adverse neonatal outcomes, including stillbirth, intra-uterine growth restriction, or preterm birth.

CONCLUSION

Women with history of chemotherapy have higher incidence of pregnancy complications and maternal death, with no differences in fetal or newborn outcomes.

Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics-2023 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association

BACKGROUND

The American Heart Association, in conjunction with the National Institutes of Health, annually reports the most up-to-date statistics related to heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors, including core health behaviors (smoking, physical activity, diet, and weight) and health factors (cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose control) that contribute to cardiovascular health. The Statistical Update presents the latest data on a range of major clinical heart and circulatory disease conditions (including stroke, congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, subclinical atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, heart failure, valvular disease, venous disease, and peripheral artery disease) and the associated outcomes (including quality of care, procedures, and economic costs).

METHODS

The American Heart Association, through its Epidemiology and Prevention Statistics Committee, continuously monitors and evaluates sources of data on heart disease and stroke in the United States to provide the most current information available in the annual Statistical Update with review of published literature through the year before writing. The 2023 Statistical Update is the product of a full year's worth of effort in 2022 by dedicated volunteer clinicians and scientists, committed government professionals, and American Heart Association staff members. The American Heart Association strives to further understand and help heal health problems inflicted by structural racism, a public health crisis that can significantly damage physical and mental health and perpetuate disparities in access to health care, education, income, housing, and several other factors vital to healthy lives. This year's edition includes additional COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) publications, as well as data on the monitoring and benefits of cardiovascular health in the population, with an enhanced focus on health equity across several key domains.

RESULTS

Each of the chapters in the Statistical Update focuses on a different topic related to heart disease and stroke statistics.

CONCLUSIONS

The Statistical Update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policymakers, media professionals, clinicians, health care administrators, researchers, health advocates, and others seeking the best available data on these factors and conditions.

A Comprehensive Review of Risk Factors for Venous Thromboembolism: From Epidemiology to Pathophysiology

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is the third most common cause of death worldwide. The incidence of VTE varies according to different countries, ranging from 1-2 per 1000 person-years in Western Countries, while it is lower in Eastern Countries (<1 per 1000 person-years). Many risk factors have been identified in patients developing VTE, but the relative contribution of each risk factor to thrombotic risk, as well as pathogenetic mechanisms, have not been fully described. Herewith, we provide a comprehensive review of the most common risk factors for VTE, including male sex, diabetes, obesity, smoking, Factor V Leiden, Prothrombin G20210A Gene Mutation, Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1, oral contraceptives and hormonal replacement, long-haul flight, residual venous thrombosis, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, trauma and fractures, pregnancy, immobilization, antiphospholipid syndrome, surgery and cancer. Regarding the latter, the incidence of VTE seems highest in pancreatic, liver and non-small cells lung cancer (>70 per 1000 person-years) and lowest in breast, melanoma and prostate cancer (<20 per 1000 person-years). In this comprehensive review, we summarized the prevalence of different risk factors for VTE and the potential molecular mechanisms/pathogenetic mediators leading to VTE.

Autoimmune disease and risk of postpartum venous thromboembolism

Background

The risk of pregnancy-related mortality in the United States has nearly doubled since 1990, with venous thromboembolism (VTE) accounting for approximately 10% of these deaths.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to assess whether preexisting autoimmune disease is a risk factor for postpartum VTE.

Methods

Using the MarketScan Commercial and Medicare Supplemental administrative databases, a retrospective cohort study analyzed whether postpartum persons with autoimmune disease had a higher risk of postpartum VTE incidence than postpartum persons without autoimmune disease. Using International Classification of Diseases codes, we identified 757,303 individuals of childbearing age who had a valid delivery date with at least 12 weeks of follow-up.

Results

Individuals were, on average, 30.7 years old (SD, 5.4), and 3.7% (N = 27,997 of 757,303) of them had evidence of preexisting autoimmune disease. In covariate-adjusted models, postpartum persons with preexisting autoimmune disease had higher rates of postpartum VTE than postpartum persons without autoimmune disease (hazard ratio [HR], 1.33; 95% CI, 1.07-1.64). When analyzed by individual autoimmune disease, those with systemic lupus erythematosus (HR, 2.49; 95% CI, 1.47-4.21) and Crohn's disease (HR, 2.49; 95% CI, 1.34-4.64) were at an elevated risk of postpartum VTE compared with those without autoimmune disease.

Conclusion

Autoimmune disease was associated with a higher rate of postpartum VTE, with evidence that the association was most pronounced among individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus and Crohn's disease. These findings suggest that postpartum persons of childbearing age with autoimmune disease may require more monitoring and prophylactic care after delivery to prevent potentially fatal VTE events.

Temporal trend in venous thromboembolism hospitalization rates in Brazilian older adults, 2010-2020

Aging is one of the main risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE). Changes in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for this condition in recent years require an analysis of its rates in health services. The objective of this study was to analyze a temporal trend of hospitalizations for VTE in Brazilian older adults. This ecological time series study used data from the Hospital Information System (HIS) on VTE hospitalizations from 2010 to 2020, selecting admissions with the main diagnosis of pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) (I.26.0, I.26.9) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) (I.80.0, I80.1, I80.2, I80.3, I80.8, I80.9). Hospitalization rates were calculated for each year and the Prais-Winsten. In Brazil, the trend of hospitalizations for VTE decreased, with an annual percentage change of - 40.71 (confidence interval [CI] - 50.46; - 29.04). DVT decreased, with an annual percentage change of - 43.14 (95% confidence interval [CI] - 51.36; - 33.54). All Brazilian regions showed a downward trend in hospitalizations for VTE and DVT, except for the Northeast region, which remained stable. Conversely, the trend of hospitalizations for PTE showed an upward in Brazil, with an annual percentage change of 4.33 (95% CI 1.26; 7.48). An upward trend was observed in hospitalizations for PTE in the Northeast region, and a stationary trend was observed in the other regions. The results showed a downward trend in hospitalization rates for DVT and an upward trend for PTE. The study indicates regional differences in rates and trends.

A Longitudinal Study of Thrombosis and Bleeding Outcomes With Thromboprophylaxis in Pregnant Women at Intermediate and High Risk of VTE

BACKGROUND

The efficacy and safety of thromboprophylaxis in pregnancy at intermediate to high risk of venous thrombo-embolism (VTE) is an area of ongoing research.

AIM

This study aimed to assess thrombosis and bleeding outcomes associated with thromboprophylaxis in women at risk of VTE.

METHODS

A cohort of 129 pregnancies, who received thromboprophylaxis for the prevention of VTE, were identified from a specialist obstetric clinic in Johannesburg, South Africa. Intermediate-risk pregnancies, with medical comorbidities or multiple low risks, were managed with fixed low-dose enoxaparin antepartum and for a median (interquartile range) of 4 (4) weeks postpartum. High-risk pregnancies, with a history of previous VTE, were managed with anti-Xa adjusted enoxaparin antepartum and for a median of 6 (0) weeks postpartum. Pregnancy-related VTE was objectively confirmed. Major bleeding, clinically relevant nonmajor bleeding (CRNMB) and minor bleeding were defined according to the International Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis Scientific Subcommittee.

RESULTS

Venous thrombo-embolism occurred antepartum in 1.4% (95% CI: 0.04-7.7) of intermediate and 3.4% (95% CI: 0.4-11.7) of high-risk pregnancies. Bleeding events occurred in 7.1% (95% CI: 2.4-15.9) of intermediate and 8.5% (95% CI: 2.8-18.7) of high-risk pregnancies. Of these bleeding events, 3.1% (95% CI: 1.0-8.0) were classified as major bleeding. On univariate analysis, no independent predictors of bleeding were identified.

CONCLUSION

The rates of thrombosis and bleeding in this predominantly African population were consistent with similar studies and can be used to inform pregnant women of the benefits of anticoagulation and the risks of potential bleeding.

Reference Intervals in Coagulation Analysis

Blood coagulation analysis is characterized by the application of a variety of materials, reagents, and analyzers for the determination of the same parameter, or analyte, by different laboratories worldwide. Accordingly, the application of common reference intervals, that, by definition, would represent a "range of values (of a certain analyte) that is deemed normal for a physiological measurement in healthy persons," is difficult to implement without harmonization of procedures. In fact, assay-specific reference intervals are usually established to allow for the discrimination of normal and abnormal values during evaluation of patient results. While such assay-specific reference intervals are often determined by assay manufacturers and subsequently adopted by customer laboratories, verification of transferred values is still mandatory to confirm applicability on site. The same is true for reference intervals that have been adopted from other laboratories, published information, or determined by indirect data mining approaches. In case transferable reference intervals are not available for a specific assay, a direct recruiting approach may or needs to be applied. In comparison to transferred reference interval verification, however, the direct recruiting approach requires a significantly higher number of well-defined samples to be collected and analyzed. In the present review, we aim to give an overview on the above-mentioned aspects and procedures, also with respect to relevant standards, regulations, guidelines, but also challenges for both, assay manufacturers and coagulation laboratories.

Risk stratification for pregnancy-associated venous thromboembolism: Potential role for global coagulation assays

Risk assessment for venous thromboembolism in pregnancy and the puerperium is currently limited to stratifying clinical surrogate risk factors without high-quality evidence. While the absolute risk of pregnancy-associated venous thromboembolism is low for the vast majority of women, associated morbidity and mortality remains significant. As guidelines for thromboprophylaxis vary widely, some women may be under- or over-anticoagulated, contributing to poor outcomes. New global coagulation assays provide a holistic view of coagulation and may have the potential to detect hypercoagulability in pregnancy, unlike clinically available coagulation assays. However, there are major technical challenges to overcome before global coagulation assays can be realistically proposed as an adjunct to risk assessment for pregnancy-associated venous thromboembolism. This review summarises the literature and controversies in the prediction and prevention of pregnancy-associated venous thromboembolism and outlines the new tools in haematology that may assist in our future understanding of hypercoagulability in pregnancy.

Venous Thromboembolism During Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period: Risk Factors, Diagnostic Testing, and Treatment

Importance

The risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) increases during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Deep vein thrombosis is the most common VTE during pregnancy, but pulmonary embolism is typically of greater concern as it contributes to far higher morbidity and mortality. Diagnosis and treatment of VTE during pregnancy differ substantially from the general nonpregnant population.

Objective

This review describes the epidemiology, risk factors, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of VTE during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Evidence Acquisition

First, we reviewed the VTE guidelines from professional societies in obstetrics, cardiology, hematology, emergency medicine, pulmonology, and critical care. Second, we examined references from these documents and used PubMed to identify recent articles that cited the guidelines. Finally, we searched PubMed and Google Scholar for articles published since 2018 that included terms for pregnancy and the epidemiology, risk factors, diagnostic imaging, or treatment of VTE.

Results

Venous thromboembolism risk increases throughout pregnancy and peaks shortly after delivery. More than half of pregnancy-related VTE are associated with thrombophilia; other major risks include cesarean delivery, postpartum infection, and the combination of obesity with immobilization. Most VTE can be treated with low molecular weight heparin, but cases of limb- or life-threatening VTE require consideration of thrombolysis and other reperfusion therapies.

Conclusions and Relevance

Venous thromboembolism is far more frequent in antepartum and postpartum women than age-matched controls, and clinical suspicion for VTE in this population should incorporate pregnancy-specific risks. Treatment of limb- or life-threatening antepartum or postpartum VTE requires multispecialty coordination to optimize maternal and fetal outcomes.

Venous thrombosis risk factors in pregnant women

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is the third most common cause of death on Earth after myocardial infarctions and strokes, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Pregnancy is a unique condition of woman, when enormous changes occur in functioning of the most important systems of homeostasis in a relatively short time. These are physiological hypercoagulation, slowing of blood flow, increase in circulating blood volume, etc. However, while being physiological, these changes increase the risks of venous thromboembolism by almost 6 times. In some cases, there appears an imbalance or dissociation between the functioning of natural antithrombotic systems and the activation of coagulation as a consequence of genetically or acquired determined causes (genetic thrombophilia, antiphospholipid syndrome, comorbidities, obstetric complications and other exogenous and endogenous factors). Accordingly, identification of risk factors, their systematization, and determination of VTE risks in pregnancy and puerperium is one of the most important tasks of clinical medicine. Various recommendations have appeared for practitioners during the last 10-15 years on the basis of the risk factors analysis in order to prevent VTE in pregnant women more effectively. Nevertheless, none of these recommendations can yet take into account all risk factors, although convenient scoring systems have emerged for risk assessment and clear recommendations on anti-thrombotic prophylaxis regimens in risk groups in recent years. This article will review historical understanding of thrombosis in pregnant women, progress in understanding VTE risk factors in pregnant women, and available reserves in identifying new risk factors during pregnancy and puerperium in order to stratify risks more efficiently.

Risk factors, diagnosis and management of venous thromboembolic disease in pregnancy

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) in pregnancy is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. However, despite the significant associated clinical burden and potentially devastating societal impact, there is still a paucity of data surrounding its prevention and management. Consequently, international guideline recommendations vary widely. Exclusion of pregnant women from clinical trials in the past has contributed to knowledge gaps. However, recently published and ongoing studies demonstrate that excellent clinical trials in pregnancy are achievable. This review will discuss prevention, diagnosis and treatment of VTE in pregnancy, and will also explore priorities for future research.

Venous thromboembolism in pregnancy is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. However, individualised clinical risk assessment and recent advances in clinical prediction rules for pulmonary embolism have the potential to improve management.https://bit.ly/3mjtHg2

The Risk of Thrombosis Around Pregnancy: Where Do We Stand?

Pregnancy and puerperium increase the relative risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and the absolute risk remains low, around 1 per 1,000, with induced mortality of around 1 per 100,000. Analysis of large databases has helped specify the modes of presentation and risk factors (RF) whose impact is greater after than before childbirth, since VTE during pregnancy and post-partum obey different RFs. The evolution of the population concerned (mostly women over 35, obese, of multi-ethnicity undergoing medically assisted reproduction) affects the frequency of these RFs. Pulmonary embolism (PE) is over-represented after childbirth, but 30% of PE in pregnancy occurs without any RFs. Recommendations for prevention, mainly from expert groups, are heterogeneous and often discordant. Low molecular weight heparins (LMWH) are the mainstay of pharmacological thromboprophylaxis, in a field where randomized controlled studies are definitely lacking. VTE risk assessment in pregnancy must be systematic and repetitive. Risk assessment methods and scores are beginning to emerge to guide thromboprophylaxis and should be used more systematically. In the future, analyzing observational data from huge, nationwide registries and prospective cluster clinical trials may bring to light clinically relevant outcomes likely to feed comprehensive guidelines.

PREGNANCY AFTER COMBINED ORAL CONTRACEPTIVE-ASSOCIATED VENOUS THROMBOEMBOLISM: AN INTERNATIONAL RETROSPECTIVE STUDY OF OUTCOMES

BACKGROUND

Few data are available on thrombotic outcomes during pregnancy and puerperium occurring after an initial provoked venous thromboembolic event (VTE).

OBJECTIVES

To describe thrombotic outcomes during pregnancy after a first combined oral contraceptive (COC)-associated VTE and the factors associated with recurrence Methods. This was an international multicentric retrospective study on patients referred for thrombophilia screening from January 1st 2010 to January 1st 2021 following a first COC-associated VTE, including women with neither inherited thrombophilia nor antiphospholipid antibodies and focusing on those who had a subsequent pregnancy under the same thromboprophylaxis treatment. Thrombotic recurrences during pregnancy and puerperium as well as risk factors for recurrence were analysed.

RESULTS

We included 2,145 pregnant women. A total of 88 thrombotic events, 58 antenatal and 29 postnatal, occurred, mostly during the first trimester of pregnancy and the first two weeks of puerperium. Incidence rates were 49.6 (37-62) per 1,000 patient-years during pregnancy and 118.7 (78-159) per 1,000 patient-years during puerperium. Focusing on pulmonary embolism, incidence rates were 1.68 (1-4) per 1,000 patient-years during pregnancy and 65.5 (35-97) per 1,000 patient-years during puerperium. Risk factors for antenatal recurrences were maternal hypercholestorolaemia and birth of a very small-for-gestational-age neonate. A risk factor for postnatal recurrence was the incidence of preeclampsia. Conclusions Our multicentric retrospective data show significant rates of VTE recurrence during pregnancy and puerperium in women with a previous VTE event associated with COC, despite a unique LMWH-based thromboprophylaxis. These results may provide benchmarks and valuable information for designing future randomized controlled trials.

Evaluation of risk stratification and adherence to venous thromboembolism prophylaxis among hospitalized obstetric women: Retrospective case file review at East Jeddah Hospital during 2018-2019

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is associated with substantial mortality as well as morbidity and is largely preventable among hospitalized obstetric women. However, thromboprophylaxis is underutilized in most hospitalized patients.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate VTE risk and adherence to local thromboprophylaxis protocol among hospitalized pre- and postnatal women.

METHODS

This retrospective study was conducted at East Jeddah Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in 2020. The electronic record database of the hospitalized pregnant Saudi women during the years 2018 and 2019 was reviewed. Based on the local hospital protocol, the risk stratification was reassessed by researchers, and the hospital adherence to the prophylaxis was reviewed separately for antenatal and postnatal women.

RESULTS

One thousand and ninety-five electronic records (539 antenatal and 556 postnatal) were reviewed. The postnatal group showed a significantly higher risk compared with an antenatal group (62.2% vs. 11.7%) (P = 0.000). There was a highly significant difference between risk categories assessment by the physicians and the researchers in both groups (P = 0.000). Thromboprophylaxis was overutilized in the low risk (5% heparin and 41.4% heparin and mechanical devices for antenatal and 17.08% heparin and 6.1% heparin and a mechanical device for the postnatal group) and underutilized in intermediate groups (50% no prophylaxis in antenatal and 51.5% mechanical devices in the postnatal group). There was less adherence to documentation in postnatal as compared to antenatal group (83.6% vs. 95%, P = 0.000) for risk documentation and 85.3% versus 91.5% for physician signature (P = 0.001). Thromboprophylaxis was ordered for 21.3% of antenatal (12.2 heparin, 3.5% mechanical, and 5.6% both) and 23.7% of postnatal patients (16.5 heparin, 2% mechanical, and 5.2% both). There were no reported VTE events or bleeding complications.

CONCLUSION

There was a considerable VTE risk among hospitalized obstetric patients which peaked during the postnatal period. Physicians showed good compliance to local VTE protocol with no reported VTE events or drug-induced bleeding. However, the implementation of prophylaxis is associated with both under and overutilization. There is a need for increasing the physicians' awareness of optimizing VTE risk assessment and documentation for hospitalized obstetric patients.

Venous thromboembolism during pregnancy and postpartum period

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality. Rates of VTE during pregnancy and the postpartum period have not decreased over the past two decades and pregnancyassociated VTE continues to pose a significant health challenge. Pregnant and postpartum women are at a higher risk for VTE owing to many factors. There are hormonally mediated and pregnancy-specific alterations of coagulation that favor thrombosis, including increased production of clotting factors. There are physiologic and anatomic mechanisms that also contribute, including a decreased rate of venous blood flow from the lower extemities as pregnancy progresses. Cesarean delivery also introduces VTE risk. In addition, studies have demonstrated that pregnancy-associated complications such as pre-eclampsia or peri-partum infections are associated with increased VTE rates. In this review, we discuss the recent epidemiological studies, pathogenesis, risk factors and clinical presentation as well as therapeutic options for VTE during pregnancy and the postpartum period. We also provide proposed diagnostic algorithms for diagnosis and management of VTE during pregnancy and the postpartum period based on updated evidence. Finally, we highlight knowledge gaps to guide future research.

Thrombophilia, Thrombosis and Thromboprophylaxis in Pregnancy: For What and in Whom?

Compared with nonpregnant women, pregnancy carries a four- to fivefold higher risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Despite increasing use of heparin prophylaxis in identified high-risk patients, pulmonary embolism still is the leading cause of maternal mortality in the western world. However, evidence on optimal use of thromboprophylaxis is scarce. Thrombophilia, the hereditary or acquired tendency to develop VTE, is also thought to be associated with complications in pregnancy, such as recurrent miscarriage and preeclampsia. In this review, the current evidence on optimal thromboprophylaxis in pregnancy is discussed, focusing primarily on VTE prevention strategies but also discussing the potential to prevent recurrent pregnancy complications with heparin in pregnant women with thrombophilia.

Position Paper on the Management of Pregnancy-Associated Superficial Venous Thrombosis. Balkan Working Group for Prevention and Treatment of Venous Thromboembolism

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a multifactorial disease that can possibly affect any part of venous circulation. The risk of VTE increases by about 2 fold in pregnant women and VTE is one of the major causes of maternal morbidity and mortality. For decades superficial vein thrombosis (SVT) has been considered as benign, self-limiting condition, primarily local event consequently being out of scope of well conducted epidemiological and clinical studies. Recently, the approach on SVT has significantly changed considering that prevalence of lower limb SVT is twice higher than both deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). The clinical severity of SVT largely depends on the localization of thrombosis, when it concerns the major superficial vein vessels of the lower limb and particularly the great saphenous vein. If untreated or inadequately treated, SVT can potentially cause DVT or PE. The purpose of this review is to discuss the complex interconnection between SVT and risk factors in pregnancy and to provide evidence-based considerations, suggestions, and recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of this precarious and delicate clinical entity.

Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics-2022 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association

BACKGROUND

The American Heart Association, in conjunction with the National Institutes of Health, annually reports the most up-to-date statistics related to heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors, including core health behaviors (smoking, physical activity, diet, and weight) and health factors (cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose control) that contribute to cardiovascular health. The Statistical Update presents the latest data on a range of major clinical heart and circulatory disease conditions (including stroke, congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, subclinical atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, heart failure, valvular disease, venous disease, and peripheral artery disease) and the associated outcomes (including quality of care, procedures, and economic costs).

METHODS

The American Heart Association, through its Statistics Committee, continuously monitors and evaluates sources of data on heart disease and stroke in the United States to provide the most current information available in the annual Statistical Update. The 2022 Statistical Update is the product of a full year's worth of effort by dedicated volunteer clinicians and scientists, committed government professionals, and American Heart Association staff members. This year's edition includes data on the monitoring and benefits of cardiovascular health in the population and an enhanced focus on social determinants of health, adverse pregnancy outcomes, vascular contributions to brain health, and the global burden of cardiovascular disease and healthy life expectancy.

RESULTS

Each of the chapters in the Statistical Update focuses on a different topic related to heart disease and stroke statistics.

CONCLUSIONS

The Statistical Update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policymakers, media professionals, clinicians, health care administrators, researchers, health advocates, and others seeking the best available data on these factors and conditions.

Global coagulation assays in hypercoagulable states

Thrombosis is one of the major global causes of morbidity and mortality, and predicting the risk of thrombotic and cardiovascular complications remains one of the key challenges in modern medicine. Conventional coagulation testing does not provide sufficient information, primarily because they measure the time to start of blood clotting and do not evaluate total thrombin generation. Possible adjunctive tools that may be helpful are global coagulation assays, which includes the assessment of the final products of the coagulation cascade, namely thrombin and fibrin. Whilst these assays have been more widely investigated in bleeding states, their role in thrombotic disorders is less established. We have previously investigated the use of assays such as thromboelastography, calibrated automated thrombogram and overall haemostatic potential assay in several hypercoagulable states including cardiovascular disease, haematological disorders and influence of hormone status as well as healthy controls. We provide a review of the use and limitations of global coagulation assays in healthy controls as well as hypercoagulable conditions.

Prevention and management of venous thromboembolism in pregnancy: cutting through the practice variation

There is clinical practice variation in the area of prevention and management of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in pregnancy. There are limited data and differing recommendations across major clinical practice guidelines, especially relating to the role of postpartum low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) for patients with mild inherited thrombophilia and those with pregnancy-related VTE risk factors. This chapter explores the issues of practice variation and related data for postpartum VTE prevention. Controversial topics of VTE management in pregnancy are also reviewed and include LMWH dosing and the role of anti-Xa level monitoring, as well as peripartum anticoagulation management around labor and delivery.

Impact of Pregnancy-Related Venous Thromboembolism on Quality of Patients' Lives

Background: During pregnancy, the risk of venous thrombo-embolism (VTE) is increased at least five times compared with non-pregnant women of the same age, while the relative risk in the postpartum period can be as high as sixty times. The aim of the study was to explore the impact of pregnancy-related VTE on patients' mental, professional, social and personal life. Methods and Materials: Cross-sectional study at Jordan University Hospital's Obstetrics Department. Results: There were 112 women. Forty-six (41.1%) had a postpartum VTE. Twenty-eight of the patients (25%) had comorbidity. Eleven (9.9%) had a previous episode of VTE. Thirty-nine (35%) of the women reported three or more hospital visits over the past six months. Twenty-one (19.6%) of the women answered that their leg or chest pain has impeded their social activities. Anxiety/Depression was reported by 96.43% while Pain/Discomfort by 73.21%. A significant reduction of time spent on their work (correlation = 0.663, significant at <0.01) and accomplishing less work (correlation = 0.787, this was significant at <0.01) was found; 57.14% of patients indicated that VTE affecting their future pregnancies; 58.9% of patients were receiving anticoagulants with the most commonly used drug was aspirin. Twenty-four (36.4%) of the women were on multiple anticoagulant therapies. Twenty-five of the patients receiving medications do not monitor their medications and 20 patients said that monitoring the drug level was a bother to them. Conclusions: Pregnancy-related VTE had a significant adverse impact on physical, mental and professional life of women. It also had negative effects on future pregnancy plans.

Prophylaxis and management of venous thromboembolism during pregnancy and postpartum period

Introduction. Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is one of the lead causes for maternal mortality and morbidity during pregnancy in the majority of developed countries. The incidence rate of VTE per pregnancy-year increases during pregnancy and postpartum period about by 4-fold and at least 14-fold, respectively.

Aim: to analyze and summarize current view on risk factors of thrombotic events during gestation and to discuss recent guidelines for the management of venous thromboembolic complications during pregnancy and postpartum, by taking into account a balance between risks and benefits of using anticoagulants.

Materials and Methods. The literature search covering the last 10 years was carried out in the electronic scientific databases RSCI, PubMed/MEDLINE, and Embase. While formulating a search strategy for evidence-based information, the PICO method (P = Patient; I = Intervention; C = Comparison; O = Outcome) and the key terms “venous thromboembolism” and “pregnancy” were used.

Results. Risk factors were found to include a personal history of VTE, verified inherited or acquired thrombophilia, a family history of VTE and general medical conditions, such as immobilization, overweight, varicose veins, some hematological diseases and autoimmune disorders. VTE is considered being potentially preventable upon prophylactic administration of anticoagulants, but no high confidence randomized clinical trials comparing diverse strategies of thromboprophylaxis in pregnant women have been proposed so far. Because heparins do not cross the placenta, weight-adjusted therapeutic-dose low molecular weight heparins (LMWH) represent the anticoagulant treatment of choice for VTE during pregnancy. Once- and twice-daily dosing regimens are acceptable. However, no evidence suggesting benefits for measurement of factor Xa activities and consecutive LMWH dose adjustments to improve clinical outcomes are available. In case of uncomplicated pregnancy-related VTE, no routine administration of vitamin K antagonists, direct thrombin or factor Xa inhibitors, fondaparinux, or danaparoid is recommended. Lactating women may switch from applying LMWH to warfarin. Anticoagulation therapy should be continued for 6 weeks postpartum with total duration lasting at least for 3 months.

Conclusion. VTE is a challenging task in pregnant women expecting to apply a multi-faceted approach for its efficient solution by taking into account updated recommendations and personalized patient-oriented features.

The interrelationship between pregnancy, venous thromboembolism, and thyroid disease: a hypothesis-generating review

Pregnancy induces physiological changes that affect the risk of thrombosis and thyroid disease. In this hypothesis-generating review, the physiological changes in the coagulation system and in thyroid function during a normal pregnancy are described, and the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and thyroid disease in and after a pregnancy are compared and discussed. Furthermore, evidence regarding the association between thyroid disease and VTE in non-pregnant individuals is scrutinized. In conclusion, a normal pregnancy entails hormonal changes, which influence the onset of VTE and thyroid disease. Current evidence suggests an association between thyroid disease and VTE in non-pregnant individuals. This review proposes the hypothesis that maternal thyroid disease associates with VTE in pregnant women and call for future research studies on this subject. If an association exists in pregnant women specifically, such findings may have clinical implications regarding strategies for thyroid function testing and potential thromboprophylaxis in selected individuals.

Missed opportunities for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis during pregnancy and the postpartum period: evidence from mainland China in 2019

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) has become one of the leading causes of maternal mortality. Thromboprophylaxis is recommended for the prevention of this condition; however, its use appears to be insufficient. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to identify the missed opportunities for VTE prophylaxis in hospitals that provide maternal healthcare in mainland China.

Methods

In this cross-sectional survey-based study, we collected case data on pregnant and puerperal women with deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary thromboembolism from January 1st to December 31st, 2019. Demographics, obstetric information, VTE risk assessment scores, and prophylaxis-related information were recorded. Thromboprophylaxis included mobilization, mechanical methods, and treatment with anticoagulants.

Results

Data corresponding to a total of 106 cases from 26 hospitals across China were collected, and 100 (94.3%) cases, 75 cases involving deep vein thrombosis and 25 cases involving pulmonary thromboembolism, were included in the final analysis. VTE occurred in 80% of the patients at the postpartum stage, while 20 patients developed the disease during the antenatal stage. Cesarean section, advanced maternal age, and obesity were the most common risk factors related to VTE during the postpartum stage, while a previous VTE-related history was a prominent risk factor among antenatal cases. Up to 75% of the patients had one or more missed opportunities for prophylaxis. The lack of the implementation of mechanical methods (60.8% vs. 24.5%, P < 0.001) and anticoagulant treatment (61.1% vs. 48.7%, P < 0.001) were more common in general hospitals compared to those of specialized hospitals. In women assessed as high-risk, anticoagulant treatment was lacking in 41 (54.7%) cases. More importantly, the lack of the implementation of mechanical methods was more common among women assessed as low-risk (56.0% vs. 38.7%, P < 0.001). Among the antenatal cases, the lack of treatment with anticoagulants (100.0% vs. 48.5%, P < 0.001) and implementation of mechanical methods (70.0% vs. 36.7%, P < 0.001) was highlighted. In addition, the lack of early mobilization was much more prominent among the PTE cases (10.5% vs. 37.5%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

At least one prophylactic opportunity was missed in most of the enrolled Chinese women with VTE during the course of their maternal healthcare. Missed prophylactic opportunities varied with the type of hospitals, risk assessment, onset timing and disease type. Further efforts from patients, healthcare systems, and healthcare providers are needed for improving the implementation of preventative strategies.

Pregnancy, delivery, and neonatal outcomes among women with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) an evaluation of over 9 million deliveries

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the associations between irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and pregnancy, delivery, and neonatal outcomes, using a population database cohort.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis utilizing the Health Care Cost and Utilization Project-Nationwide Inpatient Sample database over 11 years from 2004 to 2014. A delivery cohort was created using ICD-9 codes. ICD-9 code 564.1 was used to extract the cases of IBS. Pregnant women with IBS (study group) were compared to pregnant women without IBS (control). A multivariate logistic regression model was used to adjust for statistically significant variables (p value <.05).

RESULTS

There were a total of 9,096,788 deliveries during the study period. Of those, 8962 pregnant women were found to have IBS. The prevalence of IBS increased from 47.96 to 172.68 per 100,000 women during the study period. Compared to the control group, women with IBS were more likely to be Caucasian, older, have higher incomes and private insurance plans (p < .0001, in all cases). In addition, they were more likely to be obese, smokers, hypertensive, IVF pregnancies, have multiple gestations, thyroid disorders, chronic interstitial cystitis, fibromyalgia and have psychiatric disorders (p < .0001 in all cases). Women with IBS were more likely to experience pregnancy-induced hypertension (aOR 1.11, 95% CI 1.02-1.21), preeclampsia (aOR 1.23, 95% CI 1.09-1.38), deep venous thrombosis (aOR 2.26, 95% CI 1.12-4.57), and gestational diabetes (aOR 1.1, 95% CI 1.002-1.22) compared to the non-IBS group. Congenital anomalies were encountered in 1.7% of the IBS group compared to 0.4% in the control group (aOR 2.57, 95% CI 2.13-3.09).

CONCLUSION

When controlling for confounding effects, IBS is associated with an increased risk for preeclampsia, DVT and increased risk for congenital malformation.

An Update on Contraception in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder in reproductive-aged women, characterized by hyperandrogenism, oligo/anovulation, and polycystic ovarian morphology. Combined oral contraceptives (COCs), along with lifestyle modifications, represent the first-line medical treatment for the long-term management of PCOS. Containing low doses of estrogen and different types of progestin, COCs restore menstrual cyclicity, improve hyperandrogenism, and provide additional benefits such as reducing the risk of endometrial cancer. However, potential cardiometabolic risk associated with these agents has been a concern. COCs increase the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), related both to the dose of estrogen and the type of progestin involved. Arterial thrombotic events related to COC use occur much less frequently, and usually not a concern for young patients. All patients diagnosed with PCOS should be carefully evaluated for cardiometabolic risk factors at baseline, before initiating a COC. Age, smoking, obesity, glucose intolerance or diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, thrombophilia, and family history of VTE should be recorded. Patients should be re-assessed at consecutive visits, more closely if any baseline cardiometabolic risk factor is present. Individual risk assessment is the key in order to avoid unfavorable outcomes related to COC use in women with PCOS.

Updated recommendations for the treatment of venous thromboembolism

Venous thromboembolism (VTE), which includes pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis, is a condition characterized by abnormal blood clot formation in the pulmonary arteries and the deep venous vasculature. It is often serious and sometimes even fatal if not promptly and appropriately treated. Moreover, the later consequences of VTE may result in reduced quality of life. The treatment of VTE depends on various factors, including the type, cause, and patient comorbidities. Furthermore, bleeding may occur as a side effect of VTE treatment. Thus, it is necessary to carefully weigh the benefits versus the risks of VTE treatment and to actively monitor patients undergoing treatment. Asian populations are known to have lower VTE incidences than Western populations, but recent studies have shown an increase in the incidence of VTE in Asia. A variety of treatment options are currently available owing to the introduction of direct oral anticoagulants. The current VTE treatment recommendation is based on evidence from previous studies, but it should be applied with careful consideration of the racial, genetic, and social characteristics in the Korean population.

Decision Analysis in SHared decision making for Thromboprophylaxis during Pregnancy (DASH-TOP): a sequential explanatory mixed methods pilot study protocol

INTRODUCTION

Decision analysis is a quantitative approach to decision making that could bridge the gap between decisions based solely on evidence and the unique values and preferences of individual patients, a feature especially important when existing evidence cannot support clear recommendations and there is a close balance between harms and benefits for the treatments options under consideration. Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) for the prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) during pregnancy represents one such situation. The objective of this paper is to describe the rationale and methodology of a pilot study that will explore the application of decision analysis to a shared decision-making process involving prophylactic LMWH for pregnant women or those considering pregnancy who have experienced a VTE.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We will conduct an international, mixed methods, explanatory, sequential study, including quantitative data collection and analysis followed by qualitative data collection and analysis. In step I, we will ask women who are pregnant or considering pregnancy and have experienced VTE to participate in a shared decision-making intervention for prophylactic LMWH. The intervention consists of three components: a direct choice exercise, a values elicitation exercise and a personalised decision analysis. After administration of the intervention, we will ask women to make a treatment decision and measure decisional conflict, self-efficacy and satisfaction. In step II, which follows the analysis of quantitative data, we will use the results to inform the qualitative interview. Step III will be a qualitative descriptive study that explores participants' experiences and perceptions of the intervention. In step IV, we will integrate findings from the qualitative and quantitative analyses to obtain meta-inferences.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Site-specific ethics boards have approved the study. All participants will provide informed consent. The research team will take an integrated approach to knowledge translation.

Society of Family Planning clinical recommendations: Management of individuals with bleeding or thrombotic disorders undergoing abortion

Individuals who have bleeding disorders, thrombophilias, a history of venous thromboembolism (VTE), or who are taking anticoagulation medication for other reasons may present for abortion. Clinicians should be aware of risk factors and histories concerning for excessive bleeding and thrombotic disorders around the time of abortion. This document will focus on how to approach abortion planning in these individuals. For first-trimester abortion, procedural abortion (sometimes called surgical abortion) is generally preferred over medical management for individuals with bleeding disorders or who are on anticoagulation. First-trimester procedural abortion in an individual on anticoagulation can generally be done without interruption of anticoagulation. The decision to interrupt anticoagulation for a second-trimester procedure should be individualized. Individuals at high risk for VTE can be offered anticoagulation post-procedure. Individuals with bleeding disorders or who are anticoagulated can safely be offered progestin intrauterine devices. Future research is needed to better assess quantitative blood loss and complications rates with abortion in these populations.

How I treat venous thromboembolism in pregnancy

One to 2 pregnant women in 1000 will experience venous thromboembolism (VTE) during pregnancy or postpartum. Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a leading cause of maternal mortality, and deep vein thrombosis leads to maternal morbidity, with postthrombotic syndrome potentially diminishing quality of life for a woman's lifetime. However, the evidence base for pregnancy-related VTE management remains weak. Evidence-based guideline recommendations are often extrapolated from nonpregnant women and thus weak or conditional, resulting in wide variation of practice. In women with suspected PE, the pregnancy-adapted YEARS algorithm is safe and efficient, rendering computed tomographic pulmonary angiography to rule out PE unnecessary in 39%. Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) in therapeutic doses is the treatment of choice during pregnancy, and anticoagulation (LMWH or vitamin K antagonists [VKAs]) should be continued until 6 weeks after delivery, with a 3-month minimum total duration. LMWH or VKA use does not preclude breastfeeding. Postpartum, direct oral anticoagulants are an option if a woman does not breastfeed and long-term use is intended. Management of delivery, including type of analgesia, requires a multidisciplinary approach and depends on local preferences and patient-specific conditions. Several options are possible, including waiting for spontaneous delivery with temporary LMWH interruption. Prophylaxis for recurrent VTE prevention in subsequent pregnancies is indicated in most women with a history of VTE.

Venous thromboembolism in the hormonal milieu

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Hormonal therapy is administered for multiple indications including contraception, alleviation of menopausal symptoms, hypogonadism, and more recently, gender-affirming care. Data suggest varying degrees of increased risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE).

RECENT FINDINGS

While oral progestin only methods do not appear to increase the risk of VTE, an association was seen with injection progestin contraception. Combined oral contraception with low-dose ethinyl estradiol and most types of progestin increased the risk of VTE compared with levonorgestrel-containing oral therapies. While transdermal hormonal contraception has been previously associated with increased VTE, a recently approved levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol transdermal patch reported low rates (<0.2%) in a large single-arm open-label study. Women receiving postmenopausal HRT experienced an increased risk of VTE in a dose-dependent manner when using oral hormonal therapy while nonoral methods, such as topical estrogen, did not appear to increase the risk of VTE. Some studies suggest no increased risk of VTE with testosterone therapy, however, a recent case-crossover study suggested higher VTE risk in men on testosterone, particularly men less than age 65 without hypogonadism. Route of administration had no effect on VTE rates. The estimated incidence rate of VTE risk in transgender women receiving estrogen therapy is 2.3 per 1000 person years, but may be imprecise due to heterogeneity in studies included in published meta-analyses. Surgical risk estimates are primarily indirect data drawn from cisgender patients receiving hormone therapy in the perioperative setting.

SUMMARY

Hormonal therapy affects VTE risk to varying degrees dependent on specific type of hormone, formulation, and occasionally route of delivery.

Risk factors for pregnancy-associated venous thromboembolism in Singapore

OBJECTIVES

Pregnancy-associated venous thromboembolism (VTE), including deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), is associated with increased risk of maternal mortality and morbidity. This study aimed to assess potential risk factors for pregnancy-associated VTE.

METHODS

In this case-control study, women with pregnancy-associated VTE were identified via International Classification of Diseases codes and included if they had been objectively diagnosed with VTE during pregnancy or within six weeks postpartum, from 2004 to 2016, at KK Women's and Children's Hospital or Singapore General Hospital in Singapore. Controls, i.e. pregnant women without VTE, were selected from a prospective longitudinal study. The odds ratio (OR) for VTE was computed for a range of maternal and obstetric factors.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

From 2004 to 2016, 89 cases of pregnancy-associated VTE and 926 controls were identifed and analysed using logistic regression. The most significant risk factors for pregnancy-associated VTE were smoking (OR 5.44, p=0.0002) and preterm delivery (OR 5.06, p=0.023). Malay race, multiparity, non-O blood group and caesarean section, were also identified to be of higher risk. These risk factors should be useful in the development of thromboprophylaxis strategies for pregnancy and the postpartum period, especially in Singapore.