Long-term psychological consequences of symptomatic pulmonary embolism: a qualitative study

Evidence for causal effects of neuropsychiatric conditions on risk of venous thromboembolism: A univariable and multivariable Mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND

Substantial observational evidence suggests an association between neuropsychiatric conditions and venous thromboembolism (VTE). However, the causal relationship between these two conditions requires further investigation. Therefore, we used a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to assess the bidirectional causal effects between four neuropsychiatric conditions and VTE, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism (PE).

METHODS

Genetic variants associated with four neuropsychiatric conditions (ie, schizophrenia, major depressive disorder [MDD], bipolar disorder, and epilepsy) and VTE, deep vein thrombosis, and PE were selected. Bidirectional univariable and multivariable MR methods were applied to evaluate the causal relationships among these conditions. The primary causal estimates were obtained using the inverse variance weighted method with multiplicative random effects, supplemented by MR Egger regression, weighted median, simple mode, and weighted mode. Sensitivity analysis was conducted using the MR pleiotropy residual sum, funnel plots, and outlier (MR pleiotropy and residual sum and outlier) method.

RESULTS

Univariable MR results showed that genetic susceptibility to MDD increases the risk of VTE and PE (VTE: odds ratio [OR], 1.25; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.08-1.46; P = .004; PE: OR, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.09-1.69; P = .006) and that PE has an adverse causal effect on MDD (OR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.00-1.04; P = .026). Adjustment for confounders such as obesity, sleep duration, smoking, physical activity, and alcohol consumption revealed that increased genetic susceptibility to MDD is also associated with VTE and PE.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that genetic susceptibility to MDD might have an adverse causal effect on the risk of VTE and PE and that PE has a reverse causal effect on MDD. Prevention and early diagnosis of depression are crucial in the management of VTE and PE.

Investigation of Health-Related Quality of Life, Anxiety and Satisfaction in Patients with Pulmonary Embolism

BACKGROUND

Features of post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety may be present in pulmonary embolism (PE) patients, along with impaired quality of life (QoL). We aim to evaluate health-related QoL, anxiety and satisfaction with life in patients with PE.

METHODS

Patients with PE were enrolled during their follow-up. All participants completed the Short Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) X1 and X2 forms, and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS).

RESULTS

92 PE patients were included (mean age ± SD = 62.50 ± 15.33 years, 56.5% males). The median values of the SF-36 subscales were below the corresponding values of the Greek general population (besides the mental health (MH) subscale). Mean STAIX1 levels were 37.05 ± 11.17 and mean STAIX2 levels were 39.80 ± 10.47. Mean SWLS levels were 23.31 ± 6.58. According to multiple linear regression analysis, the MH and general health subscales were predictive of SWLS levels (F (10.76) = 10.576, p < 0.001, R2 = 0.581). The MH score (β = -0.242, p < 0.01) and STAIX1 level (β = 0.312, p < 0.001) (F (9.77) = 26.445, p < 0.001, R2 = 0.756) were predictive of STAIX2.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with PE exhibit slight satisfaction with life, borderline anxiety and impaired HRQoL.

Performance-based outcome measures for assessing physical capacity in patients with pulmonary embolism: A scoping review

INTRODUCTION

Up to 50 % of patients surviving a pulmonary embolism (PE) report persisting shortness of breath, reduced physical capacity and psychological distress. As the PE population is heterogeneous compared to other cardiovascular patient groups, outcome measures for assessing physical capacity traditionally used in cardiac populations may not be reliable for the PE population as a whole. This scoping review aims to 1) map performance-based outcome measures (PBOMs) used for assessing physical capacity in PE research, and 2) to report the psychometric properties of the identified PBOMs in a PE population.

METHODS

The review was conducted according to the Joanna Briggs Institute framework for scoping reviews and reported according to the PRISMA-Extension for Scoping Reviews guideline.

RESULTS

The systematic search of five databases identified 4585 studies, of which 243 studies met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 185 studies focused on a subgroup of patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. Ten different PBOMs were identified in the included studies. The 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) were the most commonly used, followed by the (Modified) Bruce protocol and Incremental Shuttle Walk test. No studies reported psychometric properties of any of the identified PBOMs in a PE population.

CONCLUSIONS

Publication of studies measuring physical capacity within PE populations has increased significantly over the past 5-10 years. Still, not one study was identified, reporting the validity, reliability, or responsiveness for any of the identified PBOMs in a PE population. This should be a priority for future research in the field.

Electronic adaptation and danish cross-cultural translation of PEmb-QoL and VEINES-QoL/Sym for patients with venous thromboembolism

PURPOSE

Most patient-reported outcome (PROs) used in thrombosis research and clinical practice are delivered using technology like online questionnaires. However, only few have undergone formal electronic adaptation from paper to digital versions, threatening the validity and reliability of the PROs. The present study aimed to perform an electronic adaption and cross-cultural translation of two PROs measuring health-related quality of life in a Danish cohort of patients with venous thrombosis (VTE), specifically the VEINES-QoL/Sym questionnaire and the PEmb-QoL questionnaire.

METHODS

The electronic adaption and cross-cultural translation processes followed the international guidelines recommended by ISPOR. The migration of the questionnaires from paper to electronic versions was conducted in the Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap). Following approval of the electronically adapted and translated versions, a pretest of the questionnaires was performed by cognitive interviewing patients with VTE recruited from a hospital setting.

RESULTS

Nine men and ten women between the age of 19 and 73 years participated in cognitive interviews. The questionnaires were successfully adapted from paper to electronic versions, and during the migration process only a few modifications to the content and format were made. Most comments were related to technicalities, e.g. touch functions and checkboxes. The cross-cultural translation of both questionnaires was satisfactory, as only minor rephrasing was required.

CONCLUSIONS

The original and Danish version of VEINES-QoL/Sym and PEmb-QoL were successfully adapted into electronic versions and are ready to share for REDCap users. Furthermore, the Danish versions of the two questionnaires have shown satisfactory face validity.

Evaluating pharmacological THRomboprophylaxis in Individuals undergoing superficial endoVEnous treatment across NHS and private clinics in the UK: a multi-centre, assessor-blind, randomised controlled trial-THRIVE trial

INTRODUCTION

Endovenous therapy is the first choice management for symptomatic varicose veins in NICE guidelines, with 56-70 000 procedures performed annually in the UK. Venous thromboembolism (VTE), including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), is a known complication of endovenous therapy, occurring at a rate of up to 3.4%. Despite 73% of UK practitioners administering pharmacological thromboprophylaxis to reduce VTE, no high-quality evidence supporting this practice exists. Pharmacological thromboprophylaxis may have clinical and cost benefit in preventing VTE; however, further evidence is needed. This study aims to establish whether when endovenous therapy is undertaken: a single dose or course of pharmacological thromboprophylaxis alters the risk of VTE; pharmacological thromboprophylaxis is associated with an increased rate of bleeding events; pharmacological prophylaxis is cost effective.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

A multi-centre, assessor-blind, randomised controlled trial (RCT) will recruit 6660 participants from 40 NHS and private sites across the UK. Participants will be randomised to intervention (single dose or extended course of pharmacological thromboprophylaxis plus compression) or control (compression alone). Participants will undergo a lower limb venous duplex ultrasound scan at 21-28 days post-procedure to identify asymptomatic DVT. The duplex scan will be conducted locally by blinded assessors. Participants will be contacted remotely for follow-up at 7 days and 90 days post-procedure. The primary outcome is imaging-confirmed lower limb DVT with or without symptoms or PE with symptoms within 90 days of treatment. The main analysis will be according to the intention-to-treat principle and will compare the rates of VTE at 90 days, using a repeated measures analysis of variance, adjusting for any pre-specified strongly prognostic baseline covariates using a mixed effects logistic regression.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethical approval was granted by Brent Research Ethics Committee (22/LO/0261). Results will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at national and international conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN18501431.

Qualitative experiences, values, and decisional needs of patients with unprovoked venous thromboembolism who suffer bleeding-"This pill will keep you alive tonight"

Background

Contemporary guidelines recommend extended-duration anticoagulation among patients with a first unprovoked venous thromboembolism (VTE). Little is known about whether this recommendation aligns with patient values after a bleeding complication.

Objectives

To explore the experiences, values, and decisional needs of patients with unprovoked VTE related to extended-duration treatment after an anticoagulant-associated bleed.

Methods

In this descriptive, qualitative study, face to face online semistructured interviews were conducted with patients with unprovoked VTE who had experienced bleeding and continued anticoagulant treatment in one academic hospital in Canada. Data were analyzed using directed content analysis to identify themes. Themes were mapped onto the Ottawa Decisional Support Framework to identify decisional needs.

Results

Between September and December 2021, 14 patients were interviewed (age 41-69 years; 9 females). Many patients were not aware of the option to stop anticoagulation and had limited understanding of the decision about treatment duration. Despite the negative quality-of-life impact of clinically relevant bleeding during VTE treatment, the majority continued anticoagulation due to emotional trauma of VTE diagnosis, a perception that bleeding would be more manageable than VTE recurrence, a desire to maintain a connection to subspecialty care or non-VTE related benefits (eg, cancer diagnosis, protection from COVID-19). Patients' decisional needs included lack of choice awareness, inadequate support for participation, lack of personalized risk stratification, and inadequate information on monitoring and managing heavy menstrual bleeding.

Conclusion

Despite the impact of anticoagulant-associated bleeding on quality of life, patients preferred continuing with anticoagulation for reasons extending beyond secondary VTE prevention. Effective decision-support interventions are needed to address unmet decisional needs.

Comparison of important factors to patients recovering from pulmonary embolism and items covered in patient-reported outcome measures: A mixed-methods systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Up to 50 % of patients recovering from pulmonary embolism (PE) experience negative long-term outcomes. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are important in identifying what matters to patients. We aimed to identify PROMs used in clinical studies and recommended by the International Consortium of Health Outcomes (ICHOM) and compare individual items with factors considered important by patients recovering from PE.

METHODS

This was a convergent mixed-methods systematic review, including quantitative studies, using PROMs and qualitative studies with non-cancer-related PE patients. Items from each PROM and qualitative findings were categorised using an International Classification of Function linking process to allow for integrated synthesis.

RESULTS

A total of 68 studies using 34 different PROMs with 657 items and 13 qualitative studies with 408 findings were included. A total of 104 individual ICF codes were used, and subsequently sorted into 20 distinct categories representing patient concerns. Identified PROMs were found to adequately cover 17/20 categories, including anxiety, fear of bleeding, stress, depression, dizziness/nausea, sleep disturbance, pain, dyspnea, fatigue, activity levels, family and friends, socializing, outlook on life, and medical treatment. PROMs from the ICHOM core set covered the same categories, except for dizziness/nausea.

CONCLUSIONS

No single PROM covered all aspects assessed as important by the PE population. PROMs recommended in the ICHOM core set cover 16/20 aspects. However, worrisome thoughts, hypervigilance around symptoms, and uncertainty of illness were experienced by patients with PE but were not covered by PROMS.

[Approaching patient experience following pulmonary embolism: A systematic review]

INTRODUCTION

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is the major complication of thromboembolic disease. While a few qualitative studies have explored patient experience after PE, to our knowledge no literature review is available to date. The aim of this work was to explore patient experience after a PE episode through a systematic review of the literature comprising: patient experience, clinicians' perception of the patients' attitude and knowledge, and the patients' perception of VTE prevention strategies.

METHODS

A search of PubMed, Web of science, Cochrane and EMBASE databases. The search was conducted without filters. Search results were combined and duplicates were removed. The selection was blinded by two independent researchers using the Rayyan application.

RESULTS

Fifty studies were assessed for quality and 23 were included. Individual semi-structured interviews and focus groups were widely used to explore patient experience after a PE episode. Patients described deterioration in their quality of life, their psychological state and an initial feeling of carer abandonment. The trends observed appear to be more pronounced in patients with an episode characterized as unprovoked.

CONCLUSION

These preliminary results call for further longitudinal studies, the objective being to better understand the evolution of these factors in the short and long terms.

Depression and anxiety up to two years after acute pulmonary embolism: Prevalence and predictors

INTRODUCTION

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is an acute life-threatening event. Besides known physical long-term consequences such as persistent dyspnoea or reduced physical performance, less attention is given to the emotional experience.

METHODS

We used data from patients with PE of the 'Lungenembolie Augsburg (LEA)' cohort study at University Hospital Augsburg. Baseline characteristics were collected during hospital stay and participants received postal questionnaires 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after their PE event. Mental problems were assessed by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Differences in baseline characteristics in patients with or without depression or anxiety at 3 months were tested. Linear mixed models were built to explore long-term effects.

RESULTS

About one-in-five of the 297 patients suffered from depressive or anxiety symptoms after PE. Patients with depressiveness 3 months after PE were found to be significantly older, had a higher simplified pulmonary embolism severity index (sPESI), higher education level, more frequently previous depression, lower oxygen saturation, and a longer hospital stay. Linear mixed models revealed significant associations of age, history of depression and sPESI with HADS depression score, and symptoms of dyspnoea with HADS anxiety score after PE. While the association with sPESI decreased over time, persistent dyspnoea and limitations in daily life showed constant associations over the two-year time period for both, depression and anxiety.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings highlight depression and anxiety to be common in patients with PE and reveal possible predictors. Careful monitoring the mental health of patients with PE is needed for early detection and intervention.

Psychological distress in pulmonary embolism survivors in a pulmonary embolism response team clinic: Protocol for a prospective observational study

Background

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a leading cause of cardiovascular death. Psychological distress in PE is understudied and underrecognized.

Objectives

The primary aim of this proposed protocol was to describe the incidence of psychological distress symptoms (anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress, and fear of recurrence) in the survivors of PE after discharge from hospitalization. The secondary aim was to assess the influence of acute disease, etiology, and treatment of PE on psychological distress.

Methods

This is a prospective observational cohort study in a large tertiary care referral center. The participants are adult patients presenting to the hospital with PE fulfilling objective pulmonary embolism response team (PERT) activation criteria. After discharge, patients complete a series of validated measures of psychological distress (anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress, and fear of recurrence) and quality of life at follow-ups approximately 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after diagnosis and treatment of their PE. Factors influencing each type of distress are evaluated.

Conclusion

This protocol aims to identify the unmet needs of patients experiencing psychological distress following PE. It will describe anxiety, depression, fear of recurrence, and posttraumatic symptoms in PE survivors during the first year of outpatient follow-up in a PERT clinic.

Evidence-based health information about pulmonary embolism: Assessing the quality, usability and readability of online and offline patient information

Objective

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is the third most common cardiovascular disease worldwide. However, public awareness is considerably lower than for myocardial infarction or stroke. Patients suffering from PE complain about the lack of (understandable) information and express high informational needs. To uncover if reliable information is indeed scarce, this study evaluates the quantity and quality of existing patient information for tertiary prevention using an evidence-based health information paradigm.

Methods

We conducted a quantitative content analysis (n = 21 patient information brochures; n = 67 websites) evaluating content categories addressed, methodical quality, usability, and readability.

Results

Results show that there is not enough patient information material focusing on PE as a main topic. Existing patient information material is mostly incomplete, difficult to understand, and low in actionability as well as readability.

Conclusion

Our systematic analysis reveals the need for more high-quality patient information on PE as part of effective tertiary prevention.

Innovation

This is the first review analyzing content, methodical quality, readability, and usability of patient information on PE. The findings of this analysis are guiding the development of an innovative, evidence-based patient information on PE aiming to support patients' informational needs and their self-care behavior.

Cancer patients' experiences of the diagnosis and treatment of incidental pulmonary embolism (a qualitative study)

BACKGROUND

The diagnosis of symptomatic cancer-associated thrombosis often causes distress and alarm for patients, especially for those unaware of the risk, or the signs and symptoms to look out for. There are few data about cancer patients' experiences of incidentally diagnosed pulmonary embolism (IPE), where lack of warning (recognised signs, symptoms) may cause delayed diagnosis and aggravate distress.

OBJECTIVES

To explore cancer patients' experience of the diagnosis of and living with incidental pulmonary embolism treated with anticoagulation.

METHODS

A qualitative study using modified grounded theory approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted as part of a mixed- methods prospective observational survey study of consenting patients with IPE. Data were subjected to thematic analysis. The qualitative findings are presented.

FINDINGS

Eleven participants were interviewed (mean age 68.3 years, range 38-82 years; various forms of cancer and stages). Three major themes and one cross-cutting theme were generated. Theme (1): IPE is experienced in the context of cancer and concomitant comorbidities. Issues are understood in the shadow of-and often overshadowed by-current serious illness. Theme (2): Being diagnosed with IPE. Misattribution to cancer or other comorbidities caused delay in help-seeking and diagnosis. Theme (3): Coping with anticoagulation. Participants' incorporated anticoagulation treatment and its effects into their daily routine with acceptance and stoicism. Finally, the cross-cutting theme relates to a lack of information and uncertainty, contributing to distress throughout the experience.

CONCLUSION

The diagnosis of IPE was upsetting and unexpected. Expert and timely information was valued by those with IPE. Education called for about the increased risk of cancer-associated thrombosis and the signs and symptoms to be aware of.

Long-Term Management of Pulmonary Embolism: A Review of Consequences, Treatment, and Rehabilitation

The concept of pulmonary embolism is evolving. Recent and emerging evidence on the treatment of specific patient populations, its secondary prevention, long-term complications, and the unmet need for rehabilitation has the potential to change clinical practice for the benefit of the patients. This review discusses the recent evidence from clinical trials, observational studies, and guidelines focusing on anticoagulation treatment, rehabilitation, emotional stress, quality of life, and the associated outcomes for patients with pulmonary embolism. Guidelines suggest that the type and duration of treatment with anticoagulation should be based on prevalent risk factors. Recent studies demonstrate that an anticoagulant treatment that is longer than two years may be effective and safe for some patients. The evidence for extended treatment in cancer patients is limited. Careful consideration is particularly necessary for pulmonary embolisms in pregnancy, cancer, and at the end of life. The rehabilitation and prevention of unnecessary deconditioning, emotional distress, and a reduced quality of life is an important, but currently they are unmet priorities for many patients with a pulmonary embolism. Future research could demonstrate optimal anticoagulant therapy durations, follow-ups, and rehabilitation, and effective patient-centered decision making at the end of life. A patient preferences and shared decision making should be incorporated in their routine care when weighing the benefits and risks with primary treatment and secondary prevention.

Evaluation of patients' experience and related qualitative outcomes in venous thromboembolism: A scoping review

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a prevalent disease with high morbidity and mortality. VTE has well-documented physical sequelae; however, the psychological and emotional impacts are seldom evaluated in randomized controlled trials.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a scoping review of published qualitative studies aiming to understand the physical, psychological, and emotional impact of VTE as reflected from patients' perspectives. This scoping review is part of a larger initiative to develop a core outcome set for VTE treatment studies.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted to identify qualitative studies assessing patient experience of VTE. Two authors independently screened titles and abstracts using Covidence systematic review software. Full-text reviews were conducted independently by 2 study team members. A modified method of "thematic synthesis" was used to collate themes upon reading and rereading of the publications.

RESULTS

Our search strategy returned a total of 4944 citations; 28 were ultimately included in the analysis. The studies were conducted across 13 countries and representative of 436 participants including a spectrum of VTE subpopulations. There were seven major themes identified: Acute impacts: an unforeseen blow, Sustained psychological distress, Loss of self: life is changed, Challenges of thrombosis management, Balancing coping and control, Negative experience with the medical system, and VTE in the context of other conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

The physical, psychological, and emotional impacts of VTE extend beyond objective outcomes typically evaluated in clinical trials. An improved understanding of the outcomes most important to patients will improve patient-centered care in VTE.

Assessing quality of life after pulmonary embolism: Comparing results from the PEmb-QoL with semistructured interviews

Background

The Pulmonary Embolism Quality of Life questionnaire (PEmb‐QoL) assesses quality of life (QoL) in patients with previous pulmonary embolism (PE).

Objective

Our aim was to assess the agreement between the PEmb‐QoL and interviews and to explore other QoL concerns in patients diagnosed with PE.

Methods

This mixed‐method study included interviews with 21 patients about QoL after PE, followed by the PEmb‐QoL questionnaire. In interviews, patients were asked about their lived experiences and impact of PE. Our analysis identified the frequency and severity of decreased QoL in qualitative interviews and compared with the PEmb‐QoL score. Excerpts that described the effect of PE on QoL in interview transcripts were transcoded to match the answers corresponding to the 1 to 6 numeric values for each question from the PEmb‐QoL using a predetermined matrix (eg, “constant” and “daily” = all of the time = value 1) and directly compared with responses on the PEmb‐QoL in the areas of emotional complaints and activities of daily living/social limitations.

Results

Interviews showed more functional impairment than predicted by PEmb‐QoL. For fear of recurrence, 86% of participants had disagreements between PEmb‐QoL scores and transcoded interview scores. We found 42% disagreement between reported descriptions of the inability to do or enjoy hobbies in interviews and the PEmb‐QoL score.

Conclusion

Patient interviews showed discordances compared with a validated psychometric tool. To capture a more detailed and accurate picture of the effect of PE on QoL, providers and researchers should consider the addition of qualitative methods to assess outcomes.

Deciding on Treatment Duration for Unprovoked Venous Thromboembolism: What is Important to Patients?

BACKGROUND

After 3 months of anticoagulation for unprovoked venous thromboembolism (VTE), a decision must be made to stop or continue indefinitely by weighing risks of recurrence and bleeding through shared decision-making (SDM). Despite the importance of patient involvement, patients' perspectives on treatment duration are understudied.

AIM

To describe the knowledge of VTE and anticoagulation, need for education, perception of risks and benefits of extended treatment, and factors influencing patient's preference to stop or continue treatment after unprovoked VTE.

METHODS

Semistructured interviews were conducted between May 2019 and August 2020 with adults with unprovoked VTE in one university hospital and one general hospital. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using conventional content analysis.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients were interviewed (median age 64, range: 32-83 years). Three major themes were identified: diagnosis and initial treatment, SDM, and perception of treatment. Education, knowledge, coping, and attitude toward health care suffused major themes. The impact of VTE on daily life varied between individuals, as did the preferred extent of SDM. Overall, patients who felt involved and informed were more satisfied with received care, more aware of risks and benefits of treatment, and more likely to be treatment adherent. Generally, patients were more concerned with risk of recurrent VTE than with risk of bleeding during anticoagulation. We identified a multitude of aspects important to patients when deciding to stop or continue anticoagulation.

CONCLUSION

Sufficient information and an individualized extent of SDM are of crucial importance for patients when deciding on treatment duration after unprovoked VTE.

Venous Thromboembolism in Patients with Cancer Receiving Specialist Palliative Care

Context

The prevalence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with cancer is particularly high at disease progression and during relapse. Patients cared for in specialized palliative care units (SPCU) are rarely included in VTE studies. Objective: We sought to study the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and survival of individuals with VTE in an SPCU setting.

Methods

We retrospectively included 2707 consecutive individuals with active cancer managed at a SPCU. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics and frequency for categorical variables. Overall survival was estimated by Kaplan-Meier and comparisons by log-rank test. Thrombotic events were confirmed by imaging.

Results

We studied 1984(73.3%) women and 723 (26.7%) men. The overall prevalence of thrombosis was 22.2% with only 6.2% occurring after initiating SPCU care, and was higher in women (24.6% vs 15.8%), particularly with gynecological tumors (cervical: 30.5%, ovarian: 29.2%). Median survival was slightly longer for patients without VTE (80 days [IQR21-334] and 69 days [IQR 25-235]; p = 0.03).

Conclusions

Prevalence of VTE was high and varied by tumor origin. VTE may impact survival. Though median survival is short, some patients are followed over months, suggesting that in the absence of high bleeding risk, treatment for thrombosis in an attempt to decrease the morbidity of re-thrombosis should be considered. On the other hand, few patients developed symptomatic VTE during SPCU care, making generalized primary prophylaxis probably unwarranted. Customizing anticoagulation for the risk of hemorrhage and physical performance is essential.

Application of pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with pulmonary embolism (Review)

As a common clinical emergency, pulmonary embolism (PE) is the third most fatal cardiovascular disease worldwide. Although current sophisticated medical technology has considerably improved the prognosis of patients with PE, they remain at risk of developing long-term complications such as post-PE syndrome. Pulmonary rehabilitation is of great value for patients with chronic lung diseases since it can improve their quality of life while also relieving clinical symptoms. Rehabilitation therapy has been demonstrated to improve recovery and prognosis of patients with PE. Due to short implementation time and the small number of studies, its effectiveness and safety in PE warrant further investigation. The present review focused on elucidating PE pathogenesis, post-PE syndrome and the clinical application of pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with PE.

Association of Psychopathology Symptoms, Self-Compassion, and Forgiveness in Patients With Pulmonary Embolism

Background

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a potentially life-threatening disease with both physical and psychological impacts. The psychological distress in the early phase of the disease has not been previously studied in the literature. 

Methods

The study sample included patients with PE with or without deep vein thrombosis. All subjects included in the study prospectively completed the Symptom Checklist-90-R (SCL-90-R) questionnaire, the Heartland Forgiveness Scale (HFS), and the Self-Compassion Scale (SCS) during their hospitalization for PE.

Results

Forty-four PE patients were included in the study (59.1% males). The mean age was 62.27±15.03 years. The majority (77.3%) had at least one comorbidity with 9.1% previously diagnosed with depression. The Total Global Severity Index (GSI) score for SCL-90-R was 82.42±49.70 while 36.4% of subjects had a high “Obsessive-compulsive” score, 22.7% had a high “Depression” score, and 22.7% presented a high “Hostility” score. The total HFS score was 45.54±40.42 with 54.5% of patients classified as “usually forgiving.” The mean SCS score was 2.05±0.65 with 59.1% of patients presenting moderate self-compassion while 18.2% had low self-compassion. The total SCS score was correlated with the total GSI score (p=0.005, r=-0.576) and total HFS score (p=0.005, r=0.675). The SCS Self-kindness score correlated with interpersonal sensitivity (p=0.024, r=-0.479), depression (p=0.008, r=-0.551), and GSI score (p=0.049, r=-0.425). Self-judgement correlated with paranoid ideation (p=0.044, r=-0.467), hostility (p=0.007, r=-0.597), and GSI (p=0.027, r=-0.505). Isolation correlated with interpersonal sensitivity (p=0.026, r=-0.509), anxiety (p=0.014, r=-0.553), hostility (p=0.032, r=-0.494), paranoid ideation (p=0.026, r=-0.509), and GSI (p=0.015, r=-0.548). The total SCS score correlated with anxiety (p=0.041, r=-0.438). SCS Self-kindness score correlated significantly with total HFS score (p=0.002, r=0.613), forgiveness of self (p=0.011, r=0.528), forgiveness of others (p=0.008, r=0.550), and forgiveness of situations (p=0.004. r=0.587). Common humanity was significantly correlated with total HFS score (p=0.023, r=0.481), forgiveness of others (p=0.033, r=0.456), and forgiveness of situations (p=0.016, r=0.507). Mindfulness was positively correlated with HFS total score (p=0.009, r=0.544), forgiveness of self (p=0.049, r=0.424), forgiveness of others (p=0.012, r=0.525), and forgiveness of situations (p=0.013, r=0.520).

Conclusions

We report for the first time that patients acutely hospitalized for PE present symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, and hostility and exhibit moderate self-compassion. The marginal majority of PE patients are “usually forgiving” during the acute phase of the disease. Self-compassion is positively associated with forgiveness and negatively associated with psychiatric symptoms. Further studies are warranted in order to assess longitudinal differences in psychometric scores and the possible result of targeted mental health interventions at PE-specific clinical outcomes.

Venous Thromboembolism in Patients Discharged From the Emergency Department With Ankle Fractures: A Population-Based Cohort Study

STUDY OBJECTIVE

Temporary lower limb immobilization may be a risk for venous thromboembolism. The purpose of this study was to examine the 90-day incidence of venous thromboembolism among patients discharged from an emergency department (ED) with ankle fractures requiring temporary immobilization. Secondary objectives were to examine individual factors associated with venous thromboembolism in this population and to compare the risk of venous thromboembolism in patients with ankle fractures against a priori-selected control groups.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study using province-wide health datasets from Ontario, Canada. We included patients aged 16 years and older discharged from an ED between 2013 and 2018 with closed ankle fractures requiring temporary immobilization. We estimated 90-day incidence of venous thromboembolism after ankle fracture. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to evaluate risk factors associated with venous thromboembolism, censoring at 90 days or death. Patients with ankle fractures were then propensity score matched to 2 control groups: patients discharged with injuries not requiring lower limb immobilization (ie, finger wounds and wrist fractures) to compare relative hazard of venous thromboembolism.

RESULTS

There were 86,081 eligible patients with ankle fractures. Incidence of venous thromboembolism within 90 days was 1.3%. Factors associated with venous thromboembolism were older age (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.18; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.00 to 1.39), venous thromboembolism or superficial venous thrombosis history (HR: 5.18; 95% CI: 4.33 to 6.20), recent hospital admission (HR: 1.33; 95% CI: 1.05 to 1.68), recent nonankle fracture surgery (HR: 1.58; 95% CI: 1.30 to 1.93), and subsequent surgery for ankle fracture (HR: 1.80; 95% CI: 1.48 to 2.20). In the matched cohort, patients with ankle fractures had an increased hazard of venous thromboembolism compared to matched controls with finger wounds (HR: 6.31; 95% CI: 5.30 to 7.52) and wrist fractures (HR: 5.68; 95% CI: 4.71 to 6.85).

CONCLUSION

The 90-day incidence of venous thromboembolism among patients discharged from the ED with ankle fractures requiring immobilization was 1.3%. These patients had a 5.7- to 6.3-fold increased hazard compared to matched controls. Certain patients immobilized for ankle fractures are at higher risk of venous thromboembolism, and this should be recognized by emergency physicians.

SOHO State of the Art Updates and Next Questions: Management of Asparaginase Toxicity in Adolescents and Young Adults with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

A wider use of L-asparaginase in the treatment of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia has improved cure rates during recent decades and hence led to introduction of pediatric-inspired treatment protocols for adolescents and young adults. In parallel, a range of burdensome, often severe and occasionally life-threatening toxicities have become frequent, including hypersensitivity, hepatotoxicity, hypertriglyceridemia, thromboembolism, pancreatitis, and osteonecrosis. This often leads to truncation of asparaginase therapy, which at least in the pediatric population has been clearly associated with a higher risk of leukemic relapse. Many of the asparaginase induced toxicities are far more common in older patients, but since their relapse rate is still unsatisfactory, the decision to discontinue asparaginase therapy should balance the risk of toxicity with continued asparaginase therapy against the risk of relapse in the individual patient. The underlying mechanisms of most of the asparaginase induced side effects are still unclear. In this review we address the individual toxicities, known risk factors, and their clinical management.

The use of qualitative methods in venous thromboembolism research

INTRODUCTION

Qualitative research has been increasingly used in health care research to allow in-depth insights and understanding of patients' lived experiences for poorly understood phenomena. The psychological stress mechanisms underlying fear, dyspnea, and pain after venous thromboembolism (VTE) remain poorly understood. However, novice VTE researchers may not be familiar with the process of undertaking qualitative research.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this article is to describe the planning, methodology and execution of qualitative methods, using the example of patients' lived experiences during and after the diagnosis of VTE. We discuss challenges and solutions in implementing qualitative research methods in health care research.

METHODS

Patients were recruited from the emergency department and clinic using in-person and phone contact. We used both in-person and video format to interview 24 patients. Interviews were guided by a set of questions to be explored but conducted to elucidate unique thoughts and opinions from patients.

RESULTS

For recruitment, "cold-calling" was found to be largely unsuccessful. Many patients have preexisting diagnoses of anxiety and depression. Video interviews were found to be at least as effective as in-person interviews. Interviews revealed unique post-VTE experiences from all participants, with a wide range of impact on quality of life. Themes that were most common included perceptions of physician communication, fear of recurrence, and concerns of death.

CONCLUSION

A qualitative research approach can reveal individual experiences and psychosocial impact in patients diagnosed with VTE, which allow the researchers to better comprehend the complexity of this phenomenon and its impact in health care.

"Whole life changed" - Experiences of how symptoms derived from acute pulmonary embolism affects life. A qualitative interview study

INTRODUCTION

Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) presents itself with a wide range of hemodynamic consequences. Respiratory symptoms as dyspnea and respiratory pain are common. The aim of this study was to explore patients' experiences of how symptoms affected their physical and social activities following the PE.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Qualitative interviews were conducted with 14 patients, with median time of 7 months (range 3-34 months) since the PE and analysed with qualitative content analysis according to Graneheim and Lundman.

RESULTS

The findings indicated that respiratory symptoms affected many aspects of life, illustrated by an overall theme: "Whole life changed". Two major categories, on changes of psychological/social nature, and changes of perception towards physical activity, described how the participants experienced changes in themselves and their relations, and that the psychological affection resulted in an existential crisis. All participants experienced changes in their physical activity and that remaining respiratory symptoms hindered them from being active. Fear inhibited physical activity and created a feeling of low self-efficacy concerning activity in general.

CONCLUSIONS

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to present results on experiences of how the symptoms deriving from PE affected the physical and social activities of the participants during recovery phase. The results indicate that patients with PE need support from the health care system to manage both psychological and physical symptoms in the aftermath of their illness. Further research is needed to find out how optimal rehabilitation for these patients should be designed.

Physicians' Opinions on Anticoagulant Therapy in Patients with a Limited Life Expectancy

Patients with a limited life expectancy have an increased risk of thromboembolic and bleeding complications. Anticoagulants are often continued until death, independent of their original indication. We aimed to identify the opinions of physicians about the use of anticoagulants at the end of life. A mixed-method research design was used. A secondary analysis was performed on data from a vignette study and an interview study. Participants included general practitioners and clinical specialists. Physicians varied in their opinions: some would continue and others would stop anticoagulants at the end of life because of the risk of thromboembolic or bleeding complications. The improvement or preservation of patients' quality of life was a reason for both stopping and continuing anticoagulants. Other factors considered in the decision-making were the types of anticoagulant, the indication for which the anticoagulant was prescribed, underlying diseases, and the condition and life expectancy of the patient. Factors that made decision-making difficult were the lack of evidence on either strategy, uncertainty about patients' life expectancy, and the fear of harming patients. Which decision was eventually made seems largely dependent on the choice of the patient. In conclusion, there is a substantial variation in physicians' opinions regarding the use of anticoagulants in patients with a limited life expectancy. Physicians agree that the primary goal of medical care at end of life is the improvement or preservation of patients' quality of life. An important barrier to decision-making is the lack of evidence about the risks and benefits of stopping anticoagulants.

American Society of Hematology 2021 guidelines for management of venous thromboembolism: prevention and treatment in patients with cancer

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication among patients with cancer. Patients with cancer and VTE are at a markedly increased risk for morbidity and mortality.

OBJECTIVE

These evidence-based guidelines of the American Society of Hematology (ASH) are intended to support patients, clinicians, and other health care professionals in their decisions about the prevention and treatment of VTE in patients with cancer.

METHODS

ASH formed a multidisciplinary guideline panel balanced to minimize potential bias from conflicts of interest. The guideline development process was supported by updated or new systematic evidence reviews. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was used to assess evidence and make recommendations.

RESULTS

Recommendations address mechanical and pharmacological prophylaxis in hospitalized medical patients with cancer, those undergoing a surgical procedure, and ambulatory patients receiving cancer chemotherapy. The recommendations also address the use of anticoagulation for the initial, short-term, and long-term treatment of VTE in patients with cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Strong recommendations include not using thromboprophylaxis in ambulatory patients receiving cancer chemotherapy at low risk of VTE and to use low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) for initial treatment of VTE in patients with cancer. Conditional recommendations include using thromboprophylaxis in hospitalized medical patients with cancer, LMWH or fondaparinux for surgical patients with cancer, LMWH or direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) in ambulatory patients with cancer receiving systemic therapy at high risk of VTE and LMWH or DOAC for initial treatment of VTE, DOAC for the short-term treatment of VTE, and LMWH or DOAC for the long-term treatment of VTE in patients with cancer.

The psychological impact of pulmonary embolism: A mixed-methods study

BACKGROUND

Patients diagnosed with pulmonary embolism (PE) are reported to experience symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and existential anxiety following their diagnosis. They may also experience negative changes in perspective and hypervigilance of PE symptoms.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to document the mental and emotional experience associated with PE diagnosis through the lens of PTSD, to better understand the factors involved in psychological distress following receipt of a PE diagnosis.

PATIENTS/METHODS

This was a mixed-methods study in two parts: (i) measurement of self-reported PTSD symptoms among patients attending thrombosis clinic and (ii) semistructured interviews with patients about their experience of receiving a diagnosis of PE and its psychological aftermath.

RESULTS

Of 72 patients who participated in the survey, two met the criteria for a tentative diagnosis of PTSD. The semistructured interviews with 37 patients suggested that around half of respondents experienced some degree of ongoing psychological distress. Those with psychological distress often recalled painful symptoms, recalled diagnosis delivery as stressful, worried about PE recurrence, and had anxieties about stopping their anticoagulant medication. Few patients reported inclination to seek support from professional mental health services.

CONCLUSIONS

We found ongoing and untreated psychological distress among people who were previously diagnosed with PE.

Physician choices in pulmonary embolism testing

BACKGROUND

Evidence-based guidelines advise excluding pulmonary embolism (PE) diagnosis using d-dimer in patients with a lower probability of PE. Emergency physicians frequently order computed tomography (CT) pulmonary angiography without d-dimer testing or when d-dimer is negative, which exposes patients to more risk than benefit. Our objective was to develop a conceptual framework explaining emergency physicians' test choices for PE.

METHODS

We conducted a qualitative study using in-depth interviews of emergency physicians in Canada. A nonmedical researcher conducted in-person interviews. Participants described how they would test simulated patients with symptoms of possible PE, answered a knowledge test and were interviewed on barriers to using evidence-based PE tests.

RESULTS

We interviewed 63 emergency physicians from 9 hospitals in 5 cities, across 3 provinces. We identified 8 domains: anxiety with PE, barriers to using the evidence (time, knowledge and patient), divergent views on evidence-based PE testing, inherent Wells score problems, the drive to obtain CT rather than to diagnose PE, gestalt estimation artificially inflating PE probability, subjective reasoning and cognitive biases supporting deviation from evidence-based tests and use of evidence-based testing to rule out PE in patients who are very unlikely to have PE. Choices for PE testing were influenced by the disease, environment, test qualities, physician and probability of PE.

INTERPRETATION

Analysis of structured interviews with emergency physicians provided a conceptual framework to explain how these physicians use tests for suspected PE. The data suggest 8 domains to address when implementing an evidence-based protocol to investigate PE.

Thrombotic Lesion of the Pulmonary Vessels in Patients with Pulmonary Embolism

After suffering pulmonary embolism (PE), doctors are confronted with various consequences of the disease, from asymptomatic residual pulmonary thrombosis to the formation of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). There is also a subgroup of patients who have undergone pulmonary embolism, who experience shortness of breath during physical exertion, absent before pulmonary embolism, or shortened dyspnea preceding PE, combined with residual thrombosis of pulmonary artery (PA) and normal average pressure in PA at rest during catheterization of the right heart (CRH). This condition is defined as chronic thromboembolic pulmonary disease or post thromboembolic syndrome. Pathogenetic aspects of this condition are not fully investigated. It is important to predict the development of postembolic syndrome and to develop algorithms for the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of patients with symptoms and residual pulmonary thrombosis. In case of the development of pulmonary vasculopathy in some patients who have undergone pulmonary embolism, a severe life-threatening condition forms - CTEPH, characterized by an increase in pressure in the pulmonary artery, right heart failure due to the presence of organized blood clots that have entered the pulmonary vascular bed during PE. The volume of thrombotic masses does not always correlate with clinical symptoms, which indicates the importance of microvascular remodeling. If CTEPH is suspected, a diagnostic algorithm is required, including ventilation-perfusion scintigraphy, CT angiopulmonography and catheterization of the right heart. Treating a patient with CTEPH is a difficult task fora doctor. The timely referral of the patient to the center where they are involved in treatment, including surgery and CTEPH is extremely important. Timely performed thrombendarterectomy in some cases allows to completely cure the patient. In the case of inoperable CTEPH or residual pulmonary hypertension after thrombendarterectomy, balloon angioplasty of the PA is used as well as drug treatment with specific drugs that reduce the pressure in the PA (riociguat), endothelin receptor antagonists (bosentan, macitentan), prostanoids (inhalant illoprost) phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor and combined therapy. In this article we considered some consequences directly related to PE: asymptomatic residual pulmonary thrombosis, chronic thromboembolic pulmonary disease, chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension.

Perspectives of patients and health professionals on important factors influencing rehabilitation following acute pulmonary embolism: A multi-method study

BACKGROUND

International guidelines on pulmonary embolism (PE) management and rehabilitation have recently been published. However, the contained recommendation about an efficient follow-up strategy after PE is difficult for health care professionals to implement because limited research exists about what strategies are efficient.

OBJECTIVES

The study aimed to 1) describe and explore perspectives and experiences of health care professionals (HCPs) and patients participating in a post-PE rehabilitation intervention, and 2) provide suggestions for future post-PE management and rehabilitation interventions.

PATIENTS/METHODS

The study was a multi-method study, nested in a larger randomized controlled trial, combining data from two focus group interviews with 10 HCPs, 16 individual interviews with patients, data from exercise diaries and logbooks from HCPs participating in a rehabilitation intervention.

RESULTS

Key factors for successful post-PE management, considered important for reducing anxiety and confusion by both patients and HCPs, were the presence of a multidisciplinary specialized team, initiation of management shortly after discharge, and having regular follow-ups, e.g. telephone consultations. In terms of rehabilitation, repeatedly testing physical performance, resuming exercise under the guidance and support of specialized personnel, and access to peer support, were considered important for increasing motivation and self-efficacy for engaging in physical activity again.

CONCLUSIONS

This study offers suggestions for key elements to include in post-PE management and rehabilitation interventions, as well as the structuring of care. However, research still needs to be undertaken before solid recommendations for the content and structure of successful post-PE management and rehabilitation can be given.

Intermittent pneumatic compression for venous thromboembolism prevention: a systematic review on factors affecting adherence

OBJECTIVE

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a potentially fatal complication of hospitalisation. Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) is one approach to reducing the likelihood of a VTE. Adherence to IPC is known to be inadequate though the reasons for this remain unclear. This systematic review explores factors that affect adherence to IPC in the inpatient context.

METHODS

Information sources-EMBASE, MEDLINE and PsycINFO were searched for literature between January 1960 and May 2019. Eligibility criteria-studies were included if they focused on inpatient care and examined factors affecting adherence to IPC devices.

RESULTS

Included studies-a total of 20 out of 1476 studies were included. Synthesis of results-eight factors were identified that affected adherence: patient discomfort (n=8), healthcare professionals' knowledge and behaviours (n=6), mobilisation (n=6), equipment supply and demand (n=3), the use of guidelines (n=3), intensive care context (n=2), computer-assisted prescribing (n=2) and patients' knowledge of IPC (n=1).

CONCLUSION

Overall while the evidence base is quite limited, a number of factors were shown to affect adherence to IPC. These findings could be used to inform future research and quality improvement efforts to increase adherence in this very important, but currently under-researched area.

Developing patient information and clinician education resources for venous thromboembolism in a physiotherapy department in response to the COVID-19 pandemic

Venous thromboembolism is a major contributor to global disease burden and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Physiotherapists often encounter people who are at elevated risk of venous thromboembolism, and as such are a vital part of an interdisciplinary approach to the prevention and management venous thromboembolism. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, appropriate and accessible patient and clinician information resources regarding venous thromboembolism are of paramount importance, to facilitate safety netting and optimise health outcomes with minimal face-to-face contact. This article describes an interdisciplinary approach to the development of patient and clinician information resources within an acute hospital physiotherapy department in the UK. This was conducted with the intention of providing appropriate safety netting for patients at risk of lower extremity venous thromboembolism and to actively facilitate prevention, detection and early intervention.

Patients experience of living with cancer associated thrombosis in France (Le PELICAN)

INTRODUCTION

Previous research in the United Kingdom and Spain has identified several areas of unmet clinical and support need for cancer patients diagnosed with cancer associated thrombosis (CAT). These included lack of information, which was directly associated with distress. Appropriate information has been shown to improve tolerance and compliance with self-injecting low molecular weight heparin (LMWH). It is not known whether such experiences are restricted to those particular countries healthcare systems and/or cultures.

METHODS

Purposive sampling of patients with CAT were recruited from an academic hospital in Colombes, France. Semi structured interviews were audio recorded and transcribed. Transcripts were coded using Invivo software. Analysis was undertaken using framework analysis.

RESULTS

Twenty four patients participated. Three major themes with associated subthemes were identified: Patients received minimal information regarding risks of CAT or how to treat it once diagnosed. However, this was not associated with distress. Patients adopted a passive role whereby the doctor was always right. They were intolerant injections and found it inconvenient to await community nurses.

CONCLUSION

The doctor patient relationship in France differs from other countries, with patients adopting a passive role with respect to information requirements. This dynamic appears to be a "two edged sword" whereby distress around CAT was minimal yet a lack of knowledge impacted on acceptability of LMWH. This has implications for the choice of anticoagulant particularly now that the DOACS have been evaluated for this indication.

Latest advances in preventing thromboembolic disease in the ambulatory oncology patient

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is often cited as a major cause of death and morbidity in cancer patients. Even a non-lethal VTE causes distress and is commonly perceived by patients as a set-back in the cancer journey and a threat to the cancer treatment. It is also known that the risk of VTE varies between cancers (cancer-related risk factors), between patients (patient-related risk factors), and also within the cancer journey of a single patient. Risk can increase during treatments like surgery and chemotherapy and decline during remission. Neither the low molecular weight heparins nor the vitamin K analogues have gained an established role in thromboprevention guidance other than in 'the high risk' patient, who remains a rather ambiguous entity. The recently published randomised studies of rivaroxaban and apixaban in moderate- to high-risk thrombosis patients, assigned by the Khorana Risk Score, has seen the inclusion of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in recent guidelines (e.g. the American Society of Clinical Oncology 2019 guidelines) for this indication. The ease of administration and the demonstrated greater patient adherence to oral agents has heightened the expectation that a practice-changing thromboprevention study in cancer patients should be realizable. However, key unmet needs that pose familiar challenges remain and as yet do not have satisfactory solutions. Anticoagulants carry risks of bleeding that are higher in the cancer population. There is therefore the challenge of sufficient risk reduction of VTE from the intervention balanced against the number of patients that may be harmed from bleeding. There is also the challenge of penetrating the risk threshold beyond which oncologists would deem thromboprevention a clinically meaningful praxis. Thus, identifying the high-risk groups of patients or targeting the length or timing of the thromboprevention to when the risks are highest are major questions that remain the subject of ongoing research. Notably all this is taking place against a backdrop of changing therapeutics for many cancers (e.g. targeted agents, checkpoint inhibitors and combinations) and their assorted impact on VTE incidence. In this review, past data for the ambulatory cancer patient are summarised, the latest evidence for the direct oral anticoagulants apixaban and rivaroxaban are analysed and the challenges of identifying the high-risk patients that have the greater chance of benefiting from thromboprophylaxis are discussed.

Effect of a Physiotherapist-Guided Home-Based Exercise Intervention on Physical Capacity and Patient-Reported Outcomes Among Patients With Acute Pulmonary Embolism: A Randomized Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

Survivors of acute pulmonary embolism (PE) experience long-term negative physical and mental consequences, but the effects of rehabilitation on outcomes among these patients have not been investigated.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of a rehabilitation intervention, comprising an 8-week home-based exercise program and nurse consultations, on physical capacity and patient-reported outcomes among patients with acute PE.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This multicenter randomized clinical superiority trial was conducted at 4 regional hospitals and 1 university hospital in Denmark. The 140 consecutively included participants had been diagnosed with an acute PE between April 2016 and February 2018 and had 6 months of follow-up. An intention-to-treat analysis was conducted.

INTERVENTION

Patients in the control group received a brief nurse consultation, while patients in the exercise group participated in an 8-week home-based exercise program in addition to receiving nurse consultations.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome was the Incremental Shuttle Walk Test, and secondary outcomes were the Pulmonary Embolism Quality of Life and the EuroQol-5 Dimensions-3 Levels questionnaires, self-reported number of sick-leave days, and self-reported use of psychotropic drugs.

RESULTS

A total of 140 patients (90 [64.3%] men) were included, with a mean (SD) age of 61 (11) years. Of 70 participants (50.0%) randomized to each group, 69 participants (49.3%) received the intervention and 68 (48.6%) received the control intervention. Both groups achieved improvements in all outcomes (eg, mean [SD] improvement on Incremental Shuttle Walk Test: control group, 78 (127) m; intervention group, 104 [106] m; median [interquartile range] improvement on Pulmonary Embolism Quality of Life: control group, -17 [-22 to -11] points; intervention group, -20 [-24 to -15] points). Between-group differences were nonsignificant. The mean differences between the intervention group and the control group were 25 m (95% CI, -20 to 70 m; P = .27) on the Incremental Shuttle Walk Test, 3.0 points (95% CI, -3.7 to 9.9 points; P = .39) on the Pulmonary Embolism Quality of Life questionnaire, and 0.017 point (95% CI, -0.032 to 0.065 point; P = .50) on the EuroQol-5 Dimensions-3 Levels questionnaire. Of the 27 patients in the intervention group on sick leave at baseline, 24 (88.9%) reported fit-for-duty at the 6-month follow-up, and of 18 patients in the control group on sick leave, 17 (94.4%) reported fit-for-duty at the 6-month follow up. The between-group risk difference was not significant (5.5 points; P = .49).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

An 8-week rehabilitation intervention with exercise added to nurse consultations did not show significantly better outcomes than nurse consultations alone. However, because of a ceiling effect on the primary outcome of physical capacity and an inclusion of patients with a low comorbidity burden and low PE disease severity, definitive conclusions could not be drawn. Initiating an exercise intervention shortly after pulmonary embolism was safe and without adverse events.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02684721.

Patient Experience of Living With Cancer-Associated Thrombosis in Canada (PELICANADA)

INTRODUCTION

Previous research from the United Kingdom and Spain has identified several areas of unmet clinical and support need for cancer patients diagnosed with venous thromboembolism. It is not known whether such experiences are restricted to those countries health care systems and culture. We therefore evaluated patients' experience of cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT) within a Canadian setting.

METHODS

Purposive sampling of patients with CAT attending a regional thrombosis clinic in Vancouver was undertaken. Semistructured interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and coded using NVivo software. A deductive approach was taken by applying the framework matrix from the original study to these data on a case-by-case basis.

RESULTS

Twenty patients (10 male, 10 female) aged 39 to 74 (mean, 63) representing a breadth of different cancers participated. Commonalities between the UK and Canadian patients included the traumatic nature of experiencing CAT, the need for information, and adaptive behaviors through ritualization. Two new themes were identified: (1) Patients with incidental pulmonary emboli (iPE) were usually telephoned about their thrombus with little support and suboptimal communication; and (2) cost implications of accessing low-molecular-weight heparin varied according to insurance cover. Patients were sometimes converted to warfarin for financial reasons.

CONCLUSION

The distress associated with CAT is a common experience across different populations but may be ameliorated by early access to specialist services, information, and support. The current process for managing iPE could be improved with better communication and a dedicated clinical pathway. Funding issues may influence choice of anticoagulant.

Quality of life and functional limitations after pulmonary embolism and its prognostic relevance

BACKGROUND

While the importance of patients' quality of life (QoL) in chronic cardiac or pulmonary disease is uncontroversial, the burden of an acute pulmonary embolism (PE) on QoL has received little attention thus far.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to validate the German PEmb-QoL questionnaire, identify associations between QoL and clinical/functional parameters, and investigate the prognostic relevance of QoL for long-term survival in survivors of an acute PE episode.

PATIENTS/METHODS

Patients were invited for a clinical follow-up visit including assessment of QoL using the German PEmb-QoL questionnaire 6 months after an objectively confirmed PE at a single center. Internal consistency reliability, construct-related validity, and regressions between PEmb-QoL and clinical patient-characteristics were assessed using standard scale construction techniques.

RESULTS

Overall, 101 patients [median age, 69 ([interquartile range] IQR 57-75) years; women, 48.5%] were examined 208 (IQR 185-242) days after PE. Internal consistency reliability and construct-related validity of the PEmb-QoL questionnaire were acceptable. As many as 47.0% of patients reported dyspnea, 27.5% had right ventricular (RV) dysfunction on transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), and 25.3% were diagnosed with post-PE impairment (PPEI) at 6-month follow-up. Furthermore, 15.9% of patients were diagnosed with depression 6 months after an acute PE. The QoL was affected by dyspnea, preexisting pulmonary disease, and PPEI, and a reduced QoL was associated with an increased risk for long-term mortality after an observation period of 3.6 years.

CONCLUSIONS

The German PEmb-QoL questionnaire is a reliable instrument for assessing QoL 6 months after PE. The QoL was affected by dyspnea, preexisting pulmonary disease, and PPEI and was associated with long-term mortality.

Long-term outcomes in patients with acute pulmonary embolism after in-hospital treatment: study protocol of the prospective Lungenembolie Augsburg Studie (LEA study)

INTRODUCTION

Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is a frequent life-threatening event and an important cause of hospitalisation, morbidity and mortality worldwide. Limited information on the long-term course of PE patients is available so far. The Lungenembolie Augsburg study will provide a view on the predisposing and PE-provoking factors, diagnostic procedures and short as well as long-term treatment options. Especially, the data on the long-term course of the disease-in combination with omics data obtained in biospecimens-will generate new knowledge regarding triggers, disease progression, treatment, long-term sequelae, prognosis and prevention of disease recurrence.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

In this prospective study, we will include about 1000 patients admitted to the university hospital of Augsburg, aged 18 years and older with a confirmed diagnosis of acute PE. At baseline, demographic information, symptoms on presentation, delay in diagnosis, predisposing and PE-provoking factors, comorbidity, quality of life, symptoms of anxiety and depression, information on invasive and non-invasive treatment procedures, complications and laboratory parameters will be collected. During the hospital stay, 30 mL blood will be collected from the patients, processed, aliquoted and frozen at -80°C. In a subgroup of patients, an eight-channel polygraphy will be carried out to assess sleep-disordered breathing. All study participants will be followed up for 60 months via postal questionnaires or telephone interviews after hospital discharge. Long-term survival, bleeding complications and PE recurrence during the follow-up are the primary study outcomes. To identify risk factors and determinants associated with these outcomes, confounder-adjusted Cox-regressions will be used for modelling and to estimate relative risks. Effect modification by age and sex will be examined.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (Date of approval: 1 August 2017, Reference number: 17-378). Study results will be presented at national and international conferences and published in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Risk of psychiatric disorders in pulmonary embolism: a nationwide cohort study

This study aims to investigate the association between pulmonary embolism (PE) and the risk of psychiatric disorders. A total of 21,916 patients aged ≥20 years with PE between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2015, were selected from the National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan, along with 65,748 (1:3) controls matched for sex and age. Cox regression model revealed the crude HR was 1.539 (95% CI 1.481 to 1.599; p<0.001), and after adjusting all the covariates, the adjusted HR was 1.704 (95% CI 1.435 to 1.991, p<0.001), for the risk of psychiatric disorders in the PE cohort. PE was associated with the overall psychiatric disorders, dementia, anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders, after the exclusion of the psychiatric diagnoses in the first year. PE was associated with the overall psychiatric disorders, dementia, anxiety, and depression, after the exclusion of the psychiatric diagnoses in the first 5 years. The patients with PE were associated with psychiatric disorders. This finding could serve as a reminder to the physicians to be more watchful and aware in the long-term follow-up of patients with PE for their care and potential mental health problems.

Gaps of care in patients with venous thrombotic embolism: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) includes pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and results in 100,000 deaths annually in the United States. There is low global VTE awareness, including limited data regarding difficulties patients encounter during their management. This study aims to identify a patient's perspective on VTE gaps of care.

METHODS

This is a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with VTE patients, who had been previously diagnosed and treated for at least one VTE event in their lifetime. Participants were separated in five focused groups; sample size was defined by data saturation. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically using framework analysis based on data saturation evaluation. The study was approved by a local institutional review board. We used inductive framework analysis to interpret the data.

RESULTS

Twenty participants were included in the analysis. Ten participants (50%) were men. Three major themes were identified: 1) concerned about limited disease knowledge; 2) VTE awareness in healthcare system; 3) incomplete communication during transitional and follow-up care.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings suggest that gaps of VTE care extend in different levels of the medical system, including: the patient, physicians, and medical teams. Patients were sensitive to a lack of disease awareness among healthcare providers. There was appreciation for subspecialty care recommended for VTE. In a qualitative study, using the patient perspective, we have detected frustrations and perceived areas of improvement of the care of the patient with VTE. These gaps are anchored in perceived lack of disease awareness and difficult transitional care.

Oral anticoagulation is preferable to injected, but only if it is safe and effective: An interview study of patient and carer experience of oral and injected anticoagulant therapy for cancer-associated thrombosis in the select-d trial

BACKGROUND

Cancer patients have a four- to fivefold greater risk of thrombosis than the general population. Recommended treatment for cancer-associated thrombosis is 3-6 months of low-molecular-weight heparin. The 'select-d' trial is an open-label, randomised, multi-centre pilot trial in patients with cancer-associated thrombosis, utilising dalteparin (low-molecular-weight heparin) versus rivaroxaban (a direct oral anticoagulant), to assess effectiveness and safety.

AIM

To explore patient and informal carers' experiences of cancer-associated thrombosis and their experience and understanding of the risk-benefit of thrombosis treatment.

DESIGN

Qualitative substudy of the select-d trial, using semi-structured interviews. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Data were analysed using Framework Analysis.

PARTICIPANTS

Participants were purposively sampled ( n = 37 patients; 46% male; age 40-89; 9 with carer present).

RESULTS

Three themes were found: experience of cancer-associated thrombosis, experience of anticoagulation and risk-benefit balance of the two modes of administration. Some were shocked by their thrombosis diagnosis (most were unaware of their risk), but others found it insignificant compared with cancer. Most patients found tablets more convenient, but injections were acceptable in the context of having cancer. While most were happy to follow medical advice, others weighed preference on the basis of effectiveness.

CONCLUSION

Lack of awareness of thrombosis risk is concerning; cancer patients must be informed to enable prompt help-seeking. Tablets could provide a welcome choice for patients if there is equivalent risk-benefit to injected anticoagulants. Patients trust their clinicians to tailor their treatment. Future research could explore the effect of routine information giving about the risk of thrombosis.

Long-term psychosocial impact of venous thromboembolism: a qualitative study in the community

OBJECTIVES

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a serious, potentially traumatic, life-threatening condition and a major cause of mortality and morbidity. The aim of this study was to obtain detailed understandings of the impact of VTE and examine individual's experiences over the first year since a first-time VTE.

DESIGN

A longitudinal qualitative interview study using inductive thematic analysis. This study presents follow-up data for 11 participants, first interviewed 6 months following a first-time VTE.

SETTING

Outpatients recruited from a community haematology clinic in a UK District General Hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Eleven participants (seven females and four males) recruited from a community haematology clinic. Participants had experienced a first-time VTE and participated in qualitative interviews 3 months previously.

INTERVENTION

Audio-recorded semistructured interviews with a sample of 11 participants who experienced a first-time deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism within the previous year. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Four overarching themes were identified: life changing and forever changed, the trauma of care, 'thrombo-neuroses' and through adversity comes growth. Theme content varied according to age and developmental stage, presence of VTE symptoms and the experience of diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The data demonstrate the psychosocial impact of VTE and its diagnosis as physically and psychologically challenging, and individuals reported being forever changed by the experience. Participants' reported continued high levels of trauma and anxiety symptoms, triggered by physical (eg, symptoms) and psychological (eg, health anxiety, negative emotions) reminders of VTE. Wider primary care service issues including misdiagnosis maintained negative emotions and health anxiety with implications for relationships with professionals. Targeted clinical interventions to better identify and support individuals at risk of distress and enhance psychological well-being and reduce distress are discussed.

Thromboembolic disease in palliative and end-of-life care: A narrative review

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is both common and a potential contributor to symptom burden in patients receiving palliative and end-of-life care. Many of the VTE treatment and prophylaxis recommendations are drawn from data of clinical trials assessing conventional VTE and cancer-associated thrombosis that excluded patients receiving specialist palliative or hospice care. In this group, the epidemiology of VTE and associated outcomes, as well as the risks and benefits of treatment in keeping with a palliative approach are of growing clinical and research interest. This narrative review summarizes current knowledge and challenges in the management of thromboembolic disease in palliative care, highlighting the complexity of decisions surrounding VTE treatment and prophylaxis.