Hormonal Contraception. Guideline of the DGGG, OEGGG and SGGG (S3 Level, AWMF Registry Number 015/015, January 2020)

Aims This is an official interdisciplinary guideline published and coordinated by the German Society for Gynecology and Obstetrics (DGGG), the Austrian Society for Gynecology and Obstetrics (OEGGG) and the Swiss Society for Gynecology and Obstetrics (SGGG). The guideline was developed for use in German-speaking regions and is backed by numerous professional societies and organizations. The aim of this guideline is to provide an evidence- and consensus-based overview of the diagnostic approach and the management of hormonal contraception based on a systematic evaluation of the relevant literature. Methods To compile this S3-guideline, a systematic search for evidence was carried out in PubMed and the Cochrane Library to adapt existing guidelines and identify relevant reviews and meta-analyses. A structured evaluation of the evidence was subsequently carried out on behalf of the Guidelines Commission of the DGGG, and a structured consensus was achieved based on consensus conferences attended by representative members from the different specialist societies and professions. Recommendations Evidence-based recommendations about the advice given to women requesting contraception were compiled. The guideline particularly focuses on prescribing contraceptives which are appropriate to women's individual needs, take account of her personal circumstances, and have few or no side effects.

Prevention of thromboembolism in spinal cord injury -S1 guideline

Introduction

Traumatic and non-traumatic spinal cord injury bears a high risk for thromboembolism in the first few months after injury. So far, there is no consented guideline regarding diagnostic and prophylactic measures to prevent thromboembolic events in spinal cord injury. Based on a Pubmed research of related original papers and review articles, international guidelines and a survey conducted in German-speaking spinal cord injury centers about best practice prophylactic procedures at each site, a consensus process was initiated, which included spinal cord medicine experts and representatives from medical societies involved in the comprehensive care of spinal cord injury patients. The recommendations comply with the German S3 practice guidelines on prevention of venous thromboembolism.

Recommendations

Specific clinical or instrument-based screening methods are not recommended in asymptomatic SCI patients. Based on the severity of neurological dysfunction (motor completeness, ambulatory function) low dose low molecular weight heparins are recommended to be administered up to 24 weeks after injury. Besides, mechanical methods (compression stockings, intermittent pneumatic compression) can be applied. In chronic SCI patients admitted to the hospital, thromboembolism prophylactic measures need to be based on the reason for admission and the necessity for immobilization.

Conclusions

Recommendations for thromboembolism diagnostic and prophylactic measures follow best practice in most spinal cord injury centers. More research evidence needs to be generated to administer more individually tailored risk-adapted prophylactic strategies in the future, which may help to further prevent thromboembolic events without causing major side effects. The present article is a translation of the guideline recently published online (https://www.awmf.org/uploads/tx_szleitlinien/179-015l_S1_Thromboembolieprophylaxe-bei-Querschnittlaehmung_2020-09.pdf).

Thrombotic Risk of Women with Hereditary Antithrombin III-, Protein C- and Protein S-Deficiency Taking Oral Contraceptive Medication

The thrombotic risk of women with a heterozygous natural clotting inhibitor deficiency taking oral contraceptives (OC) has not been evaluated. Therefore, a retrospective collaborative controlled cohort-study was carried out in 8 coagulation laboratories and thrombosis units in Austria, Germany and Switzerland.

The incidence of thromboembolism in 48 females heterozygous for hereditary type I deficiency of antithrombin ITT (n = 1.5), protein C. (n = 16) or protein S (n = 17), who had taken OC at least once in their life were compared with that of 48 deficient women, who had never taken OC (controls). Diagnosis of the deficiency state was made in the participating centers. Data on the onset and duration of OC intake and the date and site of thrombotic events were obtained from a questionnaire filled in by the patient or a physician during a visit at a participating center. The observation period in the OC patients was started with onset of OC intake and was terminated when a thromboembolic event had occurred or when OC medication were discontinued. In the patients without OC, the observation period began at an age matched to that of the OC patient and ended when a thromboembolic event had occurred or was continued as long as the corresponding OC patient was on treatment.

In AT Ill-deficient females the probability for thrombosis was significantly higher for patients taking OC compared to the non-OC-patients (Wilcoxon test p = 0.004, Log Rank test p = 0.005). In patients with protein C- ((3-error 0.8) and protein S-deficiency ((3-error 0.05) there was no significant difference between the OC- and non-OC-group. The incidence of thrombosis/patient year in AT III-, PC- and PS-deficient females on OC was 27.5%, 12% and 6.5%, respectively and 3.4%, 6.9% and 8.6%, respectively, in the control patients.

We conclude that females with hereditary antithrombin Ill-deficiency are at high risk for venous thromboembolism when taking OC. Therefore, OC should be strictly avoided in these females and AT III measurement is mandatory in female relatives of AT Ill-deficient patients at young age before starting OC. There is no evidence for an excess thrombotic risk by OC intake in PS-deficient females. In protein C-deficient women OC medication was not associated with a significant increase of thrombosis, but an increased risk cannot be excluded.

Sex hormones and venous thromboembolism - from contraception to hormone replacement therapy

The use of sex hormones such as combined oral contraceptives (COC) or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) increases the risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE) considerably, especially in patients with an increased intrinsic risk for thromboembolic complications. Despite public and media attention and increasing scientific evidence, prescription patterns seem to be hard to change. It is well recognized that the patient's baseline risk is the most relevant factor in the absolute risk for developing VTE. The relative risk increase associated with sex hormones, depends on the type and dosage of hormones, the route of application (oral, vaginal, transdermal), and for COC, on the specific combination of oestrogen and gestagen components. Consequently, a careful decision for or against any specific type of hormone treatment needs to be based on an assessment of the patient's risk profile (disposition) as well as on the treatment-associated risks and benefits (exposition). This review discusses the most common sex hormone treatments in contraception and HRT, the relevance for VTE risk patients, and strategies to counsel patients with regard to hormone use according to their risk profiles. Keywords: Oral contraceptives, hormonal contraception, hormone replacement therapy, venous thromboembolism.

Congenital Deficiency of Plasminogen and Its Relationship to Venous Thrombosis

In a patient with deep venous thrombosis, plasma concentrations of coagulant and inhibitor proteins were normal except for moderate deficiency of plasminogen. Family studies revealed a similar deficiency in the mother and sister of the propositus. Evaluation of purified plasminogen demonstrated that it functioned normally. The patient represents our only example of plasminogen deficiency in 435 German individuals evaluated with a history of thromboembolism.

Abschätzung des Thromboserisikos bei internistischen Patienten

Bei einem thromboembolischen Ereignis handelt es sich möglicherweise um eine vermeidbare Komplikation, wenn das Risiko prospektiv erkennbar ist. Die richtige Einschätzung des individuellen Risikos ist deshalb von herausragender klinischer Bedeutung, bei internistischen Patienten wegen der Komplexität und Multimorbidität älterer Patienten jedoch schwierig. Bei nicht chirurgischen Patienten ist das individuelle Thromboserisiko definiert als Summe aus expositionellen und dispositionellen Risikofaktoren, die nach evidenzbasierter Studienlage gewichtet und in ein Risikoschema umgesetzt werden. In ein praxisnahes und alltagstaugliches Risikoschema können nicht alle klinischen Situationen aufgenommen werden, jedoch erlauben die Schemata in dieser Arbeit die flexible Anwendung und Anpassung an die individuelle Patientensituation in Klinik und ambulanter Versorgung. Damit soll ermöglicht werden, dass der Arzt eine begründete Ja/Nein-Entscheidung zur Thromboseprophylaxe treffen kann.

Therapie mit Dabigatran

Summary Dabigatran, an oral, reversible direct factor IIa inhibitor, is approved in Europe for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation and for the prevention of venous thromboembolism after elective hip and knee replacement. In contrast to vitamin K antagonists, a routine coagulation monitoring during the treatment with dabigatran etexilate is not necessary. However, in specific clinical situations such as invasive emergency procedures or serious haemorrhage, the actual anticoagulant status of dabigatran may be of importance for the treating clinician and can be assessed by clotting tests (aPTT, TT, ECT). The diluted thrombin time test (Hemoclot®), which is specifically calibrated for dabigatran, is useful for quantitative determination of the dabigatran serum concentration. In general, discontinuation of dabigatran etexilate 24 hours before standard elective surgery is sufficient to normalise the bleeding risk in patients with normal renal function. In patients with renal impairment and/or in the case of a high bleeding risk procedure the recommended duration of discontinuation is prolonged. If a bleeding episode occurs in a patient on dabigatran, further treatment should be based on the severity and localisation of the bleeding. A distinct feature of dabigatran is the possibility of effectively removing dabigatran from the circulation by haemodialysis. Recommendation: In the case of clinically minor bleedings, a delay in the administration of the next dabigatran etexilate dose is recommended. The length of the delay is based on the patient’s individual thromboembolic risk. In minor bleedings the use of prothrombin complex concentrates is not indicated. In the case of moderate or major bleedings the main focus should be on stabilising the circulation by using fluids and blood products and, if a lesion can be identified, the local treatment thereof. If time and infrastructure is available, dialysis offers an effective and fast option to remove dabigatran out of the circulation. In the incidence of severe and life threatening bleedings, an additional, more complex haemostasis management is required. Besides haemodynamic stabilisation of the circulation, administration of prothrombin complex concentrates should not be delayed. It has to be kept in mind that standard laboratory coagulation parameters may not accurately reflect the effect of prothrombin complex concentrates in patients on dabigatran. Hence the effect of the prothrombin complex concentrate should be monitored clinically and adjusted by means of onset of coagulation in vivo.

Diagnosis of deep-vein thrombosis: Adherence to guidelines and outcomes in real-world health care

Current guidelines recommend optimised algorithms for diagnosis of suspected deep-vein thrombosis (DVT). There is little data to determine to what extent real-world health care adheres to guidelines, and which outcome in terms of diagnostic efficiency and safety is achieved. This registry involved patients with clinically suspected DVT of the leg recruited in German ambulatory care between October and December 2005. Registry items were: diagnostic methods applied; diagnostic categories at day 1; and venous thromboembolic events up to 90 days in patients without firmly established DVT. A total of 4,976 patients were recruited in 326 centres. Venous ultrasonography was performed in 4,770 patients (96%), D-dimer assay in 1,773 patients (36%) and venography in 288 patients (6%). At day 1, DVT was confirmed in 1,388 patients (28%), and ruled out in 3,389 patients (68%), and work-up was inconclusive in 199 patients (4%).The rate of venous thromboembolism at 90 days was 0.34% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.09 to 0.88) in patients in whom the diagnosis of DVT had been ruled out, and 2.50% (95% CI: 0.69 to 6.28) in patients with inconclusive diagnostic workup. This nationwide evaluation in German ambulatory care revealed that the diagnostic work-up for suspected DVT did not adhere to current guidelines. However, the overall diagnostic safety was excellent, although there is potential for improvement in a well defined minority of patients.

The TULIPA registry was funded by GlaxoSmithKline GmbH und Co KG, Munich.

Impact of gender on the clinical presentation and diagnosis of deep-vein thrombosis

It is uncertain whether gender influences the clinical presentation of deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) and the discriminative value of the Wells diagnostic pretest probability score. The aim of the study was to determine whether gender impacts the clinical presentation and diagnosis of DVT. The study analysed a cohort of 4,976 outpatients with clinically suspected DVT of the leg prospectively recruited by 326 vascular medicine physicians in the German ambulatory care sector between October and December 2005. The diagnosis of DVT was based on compression ultrasonography in 96% of patients. Among 4,777 patients who had a diagnostic work-up for DVT there were more women (n=2,998) than men (n=1,779). However, the prevalence of confirmed DVT was 37.0% (658/1779) in men vs. 24.3% (730/2,998) in women (p<0.001). Among patients with confirmed DVT, proximal DVT was more common in men (59.6% vs. 44.5% in women, p<0.001). Swelling of the leg, pitting oedema and dilated superficial veins were more frequently reported by men (p<0.001). The percentage of patients with a high probability Wells clinical pretest score was higher in men than in women (67.0% vs. 57.0%, p<0.001). However, overall, the score equally discriminated risk groups for DVT in both sexes. In conclusion, women were more frequently referred for a diagnostic work-up for DVT than men, but the prevalence of DVT was higher in men and their thrombotic events were more severe. Nevertheless, the Wells clinical pretest probability score correctly identified low- and high-risk groups in both genders.

An Evaluation of Venous Thromboembolic Risk in Acutely Ill Medical Patients Immobilized at Home: The AT-HOME Study

Many risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE) in hospitalized medical patients are also present in medical outpatients. VTE prevention represents an important challenge for physicians treating patients at home. The AT-HOME study was a prospective cross-sectional observational study designed to assess awareness of the risk of VTE in immobilized acutely ill medical outpatients among German physicians, many of whom were participating in a national Continuing Medical Education (CME) program designed to raise awareness of VTE. The study involved 1210 medical patients who were acutely confined to bed at home. Physicians performed a subjective assessment of VTE risk, which was rated on a 10-point scale (1 = very low risk; 10 = very high risk). The risk of VTE was also assessed retrospectively by using a scorecard developed for use in hospitalized medical patients. Of the 1210 patients, 198 (16%) had risk scores of 0-4, 319 (26%) had scores of 5 or 6, and 693 (57%) had scores ≥7. Overall, 966 patients (80%) received thromboprophylaxis. The proportion of patients receiving thromboprophylaxis was 0% to 47% in risk score groups 0-4, 76% to 85% in groups 5 and 6, and 90% to 100% in risk score groups 7-10. In the retrospective assessment of VTE risk, 74% of patients were at high risk, 15% were at intermediate risk, and 11% were at low risk. The proportions of patients receiving thromboprophylaxis in these groups were 87%, 61%, and 55%, respectively. The involvement of physicians in educational activities focusing on VTE awareness appeared to create awareness of the risks of VTE in acutely ill medical outpatients.

Leg Ulcer Patients: No Decreased Fibrinolytic Response but White Cell Trapping after Venous Occlusion of the Upper Limb

Objective:

To study changes in indicators of fibrinolytic activity and white cell trapping in response to raised venous pressure in the upper limbs of patients with chronic venous insufficiency.

Design:

Comparison of disease group versus control group study.

Setting:

Departments of Dermatology and Medicine, University of Freiburg.

Patient:

Thirty patients with chronic venous insufficiency and thirty control subjects of similar age with unrelated conditions.

Interventions:

The venous pressure was raised in one upper limb by application of a sphygmomanometer cuff around the upper arm for a period of 10 minutes.

Main outcome measures:

Red cell count, white cell count, plasminogen activator inhibitor, tissue plasminogen activator were measured in blood drawn from the arm subjected to raised venous pressure.

Results:

No significant changes were observed in the parameters of fibrinolytic activity. After 10 minutes of venous hypertension the white cell trapping in the disease group was 17.7% (interquartile range, 10.7–22), compared with 12.8% (interquartile range 4.9–16.1%) in the control group.

Conclusion:

The differences in white cell trapping parameters between healthy control subjects and patients with chronic venous insufficiency is probably attributable to systemic activation of white cells associated with their venous disease.

[On the ancient and magical lesions in the sixteenth to eighteenth centuries]

At the beginning of the Renaissance magical, witchcraft and demonological medicine still played a large role in the poor healing ability of chronic leg ulcers. This included the general administration of magical potions and topical application. An example of the manipulation of the whole body by the devil was the Abracadabra text from Johann Christoph Bitterkraut in the year 1677. The use of bewitched ointments was particularly propagated by Paracelsus in 1622; however, even as early as the beginning of the seventeenth century, the invocation of supernatural powers was slowly diminishing until at the beginning of the nineteenth century the medical schools on chronic leg ulcers could be cultivated at the universities and by specialized wound healers.

Post-thrombotic syndrome 3 years after deep venous thrombosis in the Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism in Out-Patients (TULIPA) PLUS Registry

BACKGROUND

Reported post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) rates may be confounded by including patients with a history of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) before the index event, varicose veins, or chronic venous insufficiency independent of PTS. We were interested in assessing PTS incidence rates of patients without these pre-existing disease conditions.

METHODS

A prospective registry with a 3-year follow-up after an initial DVT was assessed. Available for analysis were 135 ambulatory patients without a history of DVT (before the index DVT), signs of varicose veins, or chronic venous insufficiency affecting the ipsilateral or contralateral leg, and Villalta score.

RESULTS

PTS was detected in 24.5% of patients, with 17.0% having mild (Villalta score, 5-9), 6.0% moderate (score, 10-14), and 1.5% severe PTS (score ≥15) after a first DVT. Of these, 52.6% had proximal and 47.4% distal DVT; 63.7% were provoked and 35.6% unprovoked (one patient missing). Patients with proximal DVT (32.4%) significantly more often developed any PTS compared with patients with distal DVT (15.6%; P = .024); however, groups were similar with regard to severity of PTS by the four-level Villalta score (P = .109). In univariate analysis, PTS was more frequent (odds ratio, 95% confidence interval) with higher age (1.06 per year; 1.02-1.09), a body mass index of 25 to 30 kg/m(2) (2.38; 0.71-7.97) and ≥30 kg/m(2) (6.08; 1.75-21.14), proximal vs distal DVT (2.59; 1.12-5.98), and calf swelling ≥3 cm larger than the asymptomatic leg (3.77; 1.66-8.55). In a multivariate analysis, age (1.05; 1.01-1.09) and calf swelling ≥3 cm larger than the asymptomatic leg (2.94; 1.20-7.20) remained predictive for PTS. Compression therapy was used by 78.5% of patients at the 1-year follow-up and by 46.7% at the 3-year follow-up. Both rates were higher in patients with PTS (93.9%) vs no PTS (66.7%).

CONCLUSIONS

This prospective survey demonstrates a low rate of PTS in patients with a first DVT and no pre-existing DVT, varicose veins, or chronic venous insufficiency, and a high adherence rate to compression therapy, within the first 3 years of follow-up. Age and marked calf swelling were independent predictors of PTS.

[New oral anticoagulants. Significance for dermatology and phlebology]

Venous thromboembolism and atrial fibrillation are common and are treated with vitamin K antagonists in 1.7% of the total population in the western world. The limitations of the vitamin K antagonists and of heparin have led to the development of new oral drugs. These drugs inhibit thrombin or factor Xa and can be given in a fixed dosage; they have a broad therapeutic margin and relatively few drug interactions. Specific risks and problems also are associated with the new drugs such as interference with common coagulation tests without being able to draw any conclusion as to the actual bleeding risk and the lack of specific antidotes. No established coagulation monitoring is available. The article gives reviews the current knowledge and provides practical advice on how to use the new drugs for the approved indications such as knee and hip replacement, therapy of deep venous thrombosis and of atrial fibrillation. Beyond that, recommendations are given for perioperative management and for change of treatment.

Die Behandlung der Varikose zu Billroths Zeiten

Theodor Billroth was one of the founders of our modern surgery. He was trained at the Berliner Charité hospital and at the age of 30, was appointed Professor at Zürich University. In 1867 he moved to Vienna University as Director of the Second Surgical Hospital where he was a member of the famous Neuen Wiener Schule (New Vienna School). Among his scientific achievements were papers on wound infection, the introduction of medical statistics, the discovery of new methods of surgery and reform of the study of medicine.

Many new editions of Billroth’s textbook „Die allgemeine chirurgische Pathologie und Therapie“ (General Surgical Pathology and Treatment) have appeared since 1863 and it has been translated into several languages. One of the 50 lectures dealt in great detail with varicose veins. Prior to the introduction of antisepsis, virtually all operations were at risk from the danger of wound fever and hence a fatal outcome. Although Billroth knew the suturing methods of the French School and also taught them in lectures, he nonetheless thought, “It’s a shame they are futile and not entirely without danger“. The possibilities of conservative treatment were exhaustively described.

Bloodletting and the saphenous veins

Bloodletting is one of the oldest forms of treatment in our culture complex. It was already in use as a ritual in biblical-talmudic medicine. In Germany it is still in use today in complementary medicine as “Hildegard's bloodletting”. The theoretical principle is based on the four humour philosophy of antiquity which was introduced to medicine as humoral pathology by Galen (129–199 AD). The four humours are blood, phlegm, yellow and black bile. In healthy people these were in equilibrium with each other. Imbalance caused diseases.

Bloodletting was performed prophylactically to keep people healthy and to treat almost all serious conditions and injuries. In the Middle Ages many conditions had to be satisfied during the performance. The positions of the stars and the zodiac were vital. A rising moon the in respective sign of the zodiac was considered dangerous. However, age, sex, climate, season of the year, wind direction and the stage of the disease all played a role. Each organ had its own special vein. Even the person performing the bleeding also had to satisfy certain conditions. Surgeons were expected to see well, not to have podgy hands or tremor, and not to be drunk. He had to have sharp instruments and be skilled in their use. Walther Ryff (1500–1562) was a strong advocate of the method at the beginning of modern times in Germany.

Bloodletting also included inspection of the blood. To this end, blood was collected in bloodletting vessels, many of which were attractively ornamented. The surgeon also had to assess the taste of the blood. Bloodletting was associated with a wide range of complications before the advent of antiseptic techniques, deaths were not uncommon. It was not until modern times that warning voices started to advise against the procedure; the most vociferous being Christian Friedrich Samuel Hahnemann (1755–1843), the founder of homoeopathy.

[Treatment of deep vein thrombosis in the leg and pelvis]

The most important step for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis in the leg and pelvis is the immediate and sufficient anticoagulation by subcutaneous application of low-molecular-weight heparins or fondaparinux. Prevention of a relapse can be achieved by subsequent oral anticoagulation with vitamin K antagonists, whereas treatment duration is based on localisation of the thrombus and underlying risk factors. Immediate mobilisation of the patient is a fundamental step. Treatment with a compression bandage and subsequent use of compression stockings is a further effective step in reducing pain and swelling, preventing pulmonary embolism and a postthrombotic syndrome (PTS).

[Diagnosis and treatment of venous thrombosis]

In the diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis in ambulatory patients, the recommended initial steps are assessment of clinical probability (CP) and a sensitive D-dimer test. With a low CP and negative D-dimer, thrombosis can be ruled out. All other constellations require further investigation with imaging techniques. Compression ultrasonography is the first-line investigation. Low-molecular weight heparin or fondaparinux is the treatment of choice for uncomplicated venous thrombosis. Secondary prophylaxis with a vitamin K antagonist is introduced in parallel as quickly as possible. The duration of treatment depends on the exposure and predisposing factors, weighing carefully the risk of recurrence on the one hand against the risk of bleeding on the other. The danger of a post thrombotic syndrome is reduced by the immediate begin of a long lasting compression therapy.

Hundert Jahre Babcock-Operation

William Wayne Babcock (1872–1963) gehörte zu den herausragenden Persönlichkeiten einer Gründergeneration der amerikanischen Chirurgie. Schon als 31-jähiger Wissenschaftler war er so renommiert, dass ihm die Leitung der Frauenklinik und der Chirurgischen Klinik an der Temple University in Philadelphia übertragen wurde. Er behielt diese Stellungen während seines ganzen Berufslebens inne und erhielt alle Ehrungen seiner Zeit. Zu den wichtigsten Arbeiten zählten die neuen Operationsverfahren der kolorektalen Chirurgie.

Die Babcock-Venenexhairese mit einem intravasalen Stripper ergab sich gewissermaßen als logische Konsequenz der theoretischen Ansichten zur Phlebologie anfangs des 20. Jahrhunderts. Vorausgegangen waren ungünstige Erfahrung mit der Keller- und der Mayo-Methode. In der ersten Veröffentlichung beschrieb Babcock elf typische Krankheitsverläufe mit erfolgreichem Ausgang. Aber das Verfahren konnte sich sowohl in Europa als auch in Amerika nur zögerlich durchsetzen. Erst in den 1930er Jahren wurde es nach und nach in die deutschen Lehrbüchern der Chirurgie aufgenommen.

Die Krossektomie gehörte nicht zur originalen Babcock-Operation. Auch dieser Operationsschritt fand nur langsam seine Anerkennung. Trotz der 100 Jahre überdauernden weltweiten Erfahrung sind die wissenschaftlichen Diskussionen über das Stripping nach Babcock neu entbrannt.

De Phlegmasia alba

Heinrich Hoffmann, der Vater des Struwwelpeter, gilt in seiner Heimatstadt Frankfurt am Main als Reformator der Sozialmedizin. Vor allem die Psychiatrie hat unter seiner ärztlichen Leitung den Weg in eine moderne Zukunft angetreten. Aus seiner Klinik für Irre und Epileptische ging die Frankfurter Universitätsklinik für Psychiatrie hervor. Problemstellung: Die Doktorarbeit von Heinrich Hoffmann befasst sich mit der Phlegmasia alba. Sie ist in lateinischer Sprache abgefasst. Bezüglich der Pathogenese gab es zu Beginn des 19. Jahrhunderts noch drei verschiedene Vorstellungen, Metastasen von Milch oder Lochien, die Verletzung oder Erkrankung von Lymphgefäßen und den Verschluss von Venenstämmen im Beckenbereich. Hoffmann griff aus der Literatur eine vierte Variante auf, die Entzündung der Tunica cellulosa, der bindegewebigen Umhüllungen von Muskeln und Sehnen sowie des Neurolemm der Vaginalnerven. Gegen die Theorie der Venenkrankheit hatte er wichtige scheinbare Argumente anzuführen. Die Doktorarbeit endet mit einer ausführlichen Beschreibung des Krankheitsverlaufes einer jungen Soldatenfrau. Konsequenzen: Die Arbeit bringt zwar in medizinhistorischer Hinsicht keine originellen neuen Aspekte. Ihr Studium erinnert an diagnostische Einzelheiten, die unter dem Eindruck der modernen technischen Möglichkeiten verloren zu gehen drohen. Dazu gehören die Charakteristik des Schmerzes vor dem Stadium der Schwellung, eine strenge Seitenbegrenzung auch der Beckenvenenthrombose, die treffende Bezeichnung des Ödems als porzellanartig und nicht zuletzt die Vorausschau des Begriffes des Klinischen Wahrscheinlichkeit in der Art von kritischen Tagen.

Diagnostik und Therapie der venösen Thrombose

Für die diagnostische Abklärung einer tiefen Beinvenenthrombose bei ambulanten Patienten empfiehlt es sich, mit der Einstufung in die klinische Wahrscheinlichkeit (KW) sowie mit einem sensitiven D-Dimer-Test zu beginnen. Bei geringer KW und negativem D-Dimer-Test gilt die Thrombose als ausgeschlossen. Alle anderen Konstellationen bedürfen der weiteren Abklärung mittels bildgebender Verfahren. Die Kompressionssonographie steht dabei an erster Stelle. Die Therapie der unkomplizierten Venenthrombose erfolgt vorzugsweise mit niedermolekularem Heparin oder Fondaparinux. So rasch wie möglich wird parallel dazu die Sekundärprophylaxe mit einem Vitamin-K-Antagonisten eingeleitet. Die Behandlungsdauer richtet sich nach den Expositions- und Dispositionsfaktoren unter sorgfältiger Abwägung des Rezidivrisikos einerseits und des Blutungsrisikos andererseits. Die Gefahr eines postthrombotischen Syndroms lässt sich durch eine sofortige und langfristige Kompressionstherapie reduzieren.

De Phlegmasia alba

Heinrich Hoffmann, der Vater des Struwwelpeter, gilt in seiner Heimatstadt Frankfurt am Main als Reformator der Sozialmedizin. Vor allem die Psychiatrie hat unter seiner ärztlichen Leitung den Weg in eine moderne Zukunft angetreten. Aus seiner Klinik für Irre und Epileptische ging die Frankfurter Universitätsklinik für Psychiatrie hervor. Problemstellung: Die Doktorarbeit von Heinrich Hoffmann befasst sich mit der Phlegmasia alba. Sie ist in lateinischer Sprache abgefasst. Bezüglich der Pathogenese gab es zu Beginn des 19. Jahrhunderts noch drei verschiedene Vorstellungen, Metastasen von Milch oder Lochien, die Verletzung oder Erkrankung von Lymphgefäßen und den Verschluss von Venenstämmen im Beckenbereich. Hoffmann griff aus der Literatur eine vierte Variante auf, die Entzündung der Tunica cellulosa, der bindegewebigen Umhüllungen von Muskeln und Sehnen sowie des Neurolemm der Vaginalnerven. Gegen die Theorie der Venenkrankheit hatte er wichtige scheinbare Argumente anzuführen. Die Doktorarbeit endet mit einer ausführlichen Beschreibung des Krankheitsverlaufes einer jungen Soldatenfrau. Konsequenzen: Die Arbeit bringt zwar in medizinhistorischer Hinsicht keine originellen neuen Aspekte. Ihr Studium erinnert an diagnostische Einzelheiten, die unter dem Eindruck der modernen technischen Möglichkeiten verloren zu gehen drohen. Dazu gehören die Charakteristik des Schmerzes vor dem Stadium der Schwellung, eine strenge Seitenbegrenzung auch der Beckenvenenthrombose, die treffende Bezeichnung des Ödems als porzellanartig und nicht zuletzt die Vorausschau des Begriffes des Klinischen Wahrscheinlichkeit in der Art von kritischen Tagen.

The treatment of deep vein thrombosis in the pelvis and leg

INTRODUCTION

Deep vein thrombosis is associated with a risk of pulmonary embolism and post thrombotic syndrome (PTS).

METHODS

Selective literature review with special reference to the American College of Chest Physicians' current guidelines and the German S2 interdisciplinary guideline.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The most important therapeutic measure is prompt and adequate anticoagulation with heparin or fondaparinux. Thrombolysis or thrombectomy is only indicated in highly selected severe cases. The risk of PTS can be reduced by immediate ongoing treatment with compression stockings. Prevention of relapse is achieved using vitamin K antagonists with a target INR of 2.0 to 3.0. The duration of anticoagulation should be tailored to the localisation and etiology of the thrombosis, from at least three months to indefinite treatment. The ongoing risk of bleeding secondary to anticoagulation should be reevaluated at regular intervals as a cost-benefit analysis. New anticoagulants for acute and long term treatment will soon be available for clinical use.

Invasive therapeutic options in truncal varicosity of the great saphenous vein

It is known from current pathophysiology that disease stages I and II of truncal varicosity of the great saphenous vein do not cause changes in venous pressure on dynamic phlebodynamometry. This is possibly also the case for mild cases of the disease in stage III. In pronounced cases of stage III and all cases of stage IV, however, venous hypertension occurs which triggers the symptoms of secondary deep venous insufficiency and all the complications of chronic venous insufficiency. From these facts the therapeutic consequence is inferred that in stages I and II and perhaps also in very mild cases of stage III disease, it is enough "merely" to remove varicose veins without expecting there to be any other serious complications in the patient’s further life caused by the varicosity. Recurrence rates are not included in this analysis. In marked cases of disease stages III and IV of the great saphenous vein, however, secondary deep venous insufficiency is to be expected sooner or later. The classical operation with saphenofemoral high ligation ("crossectomy") and stripping strictly adheres to the recognized pathophysiologic principles. It also takes into account in the greatest detail aspects of minimally invasive surgery and esthetics. In the past few years, developments have been advanced to further minimize surgical trauma and to replace the stripping maneuver using occlusion of the trunk vein which is left in place. Obliteration of the vessel is subsequently performed via transmission of energy through an inserted catheter. This includes the techniques of radiofrequency ablation and endovenous laser treatment. High ligation is not performed as a matter of principle. In a similar way, sclerotherapy using microfoam is minimally invasive in character. All these procedures may be indicated for disease stages I and II, and with reservations also in mild forms of stage III disease. Perhaps high ligation previously constituted overtreatment in some cases. Targeted studies are still needed to prove whether secondary deep venous insufficiency can be avoided in advanced stages of varicose vein disease without high ligation and thus without exclusion of the whole recirculation circuit.

Mobilization versus immobilization in the treatment of acute proximal deep venous thrombosis: a prospective, randomized, open, multicentre trial

OBJECTIVE

The aim of prescribing strict bed rest for acute deep venous thrombosis is to reduce the risk of pulmonary embolism and pain in the legs, as well as swelling. This study was performed in order to compare outcome of mobilization against 5 days of strict bed rest in patients with acute proximal deep venous thrombosis (DVT).

METHODS

103 in-patients with proximal DVT or patients admitted to the hospital because of proximal DVT were recruited to a randomized study. All patients were treated in hospital and given a lower leg and thigh compression bandage as well as therapeutic doses of the low molecular weight heparin, dalteparin-sodium (Fragmin).

RESULTS

Seven of 52 patients (13.5%) in the mobile group versus 14 of 50 patients (28.0%) in the immobile group suffered at least one of the outcomes defined under the combined primary endpoint (clinically relevant pulmonary embolisms, pulmonary embolisms detectable by scintigraphy or computer tomography, progression of thrombosis or new thrombosis, nosocomial infections and/or serious adverse events) (p = 0.088), whereby serious adverse events occurred once in the mobile group and three times in the immobile group. New pulmonary embolisms over the course were seen in 10 of 50 patients (20%) with a perfusion disorder at baseline scintigraphy, while such was ascertained only in one of 52 patients (1.9%) without a perfusion disorder at baseline scintigraphy. Leg pain was reduced from 54.1 (+/-30.4) to 20.7 (+/-19.2) in the mobilized group and from 41.0 (+/-26.8) to 14.0 (+/-11.1) in the immobilized patients. Leg pain was assessed using the visual analogue scale (0 = no pain, 100 = maximum pain). More immobilized patients complained of increasing back pain (23% versus 6%) and disturbed micturition (10% versus 2%) as well as defecation (13% versus 6%) on day 5. More patients in the mobile group reported increased stress from the thrombosis and its treatment (15% versus 6%).

CONCLUSIONS

No benefit of prescribing bed rest in patients with deep venous thrombosis could be detected in this study. Based on data available, strict bed rest for at least 5 days is not justified if adequate therapy with low molecular weight heparin and adequate compression is assured. It remains open whether patients with initial signs of pulmonary embolism might profit from a brief immobilization.

Venous thromboembolic risk and thromboprophylaxis in acutely ill medical outpatients

215 German family physicians participated in a prospective registry to assess the venous thromboembolic risk in acutely ill medical outpatients. In 1247 patients who were visited at home due to an acute medical illness, the risk factors were documented using a standardised questionnaire. The doctors subjectively rated the patient’s risk on a scale ranging from 1 to 10 and the result was compared with an objective risk-score which had been previously developed for hospitalized patients and has been successfully used in these patients. The results showed a wide agreement of the subjective risk assessment and the objective score. The resulting consequence of an adequate thromboprophylaxis reflects a high awareness of venous thromboembolic risk among the physicians treating acutely ill medical outpatients.

[Diagnosis and treatment of venous thrombosis]

In the diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis in ambulatory patients, the recommended initial steps are assessment of clinical probability (CP) and a sensitive D-dimer test. With a low CP and negative D-dimer, thrombosis can be ruled out. All other constellations require further investigation with imaging techniques. Compression ultrasonography is the first-line investigation. Low-molecular weight heparin is the treatment of choice for uncomplicated venous thrombosis. Secondary prophylaxis with a vitamin K antagonist is introduced in parallel as quickly as possible. The duration of treatment depends on the exposure and predisposing factors, weighing carefully the risk of recurrence on the one hand against the risk of bleeding on the other. If there are contraindications to anticoagulation with heparins or coumarins, various other anticoagulant drugs are available.

Diagnostik und Therapie der venösen Thrombose

Für die diagnostische Abklärung einer tiefen Beinvenenthrombose bei ambulanten Patienten empfiehlt es sich, mit der Einstufung in die klinische Wahrscheinlichkeit (KW) sowie mit einem sensitiven D-Dimer-Test zu beginnen. Bei geringer KW und negativem D-Dimer-Test gilt die Thrombose als ausgeschlossen. Alle anderen Konstellationen bedürfen der weiteren Abklärung mittels bildgebender Verfahren. Die Kompressionssonographie steht dabei an erster Stelle.

Die Therapie der unkomplizierten Venenthrombose erfolgt vorzugsweise mit niedermolekularem Heparin. So rasch wie möglich wird parallel dazu die Sekundärprophylaxe mit einem Vitamin-K-Antagonisten eingeleitet. Die Behandlungsdauer richtet sich nach den Expositions- und Dispositionsfaktoren unter sorgfältiger Abwägung des Rezidivrisikos einerseits und des Blutungsrisikos andererseits. Bei Kontraindikationen gegen eine Antikoagulation mit Heparinen bzw. mit Cumarinen stehen verschiedene gerinnungshemmende Substanzen alternativ zur Verfügung.

Duplexsonographische Beurteilung des belassenen Segments der Vena saphena magna nach partieller Resektion wegen Stammvarikose

Fragestellung: Die stadiengerechte Operation einer Stammvarikose der V. saphena magna gilt als Standardtherapie. Über das Schicksal des verbliebenen distalen Venensegments ist wenig bekannt. Die V. saphena magna hat eine wichtige Bedeutung als Transplantat in der Chirurgie der koronaren Herzkrankheit und der peripheren arteriellen Verschlusskrankheit. Patienten und Methode: Wir erfassten 66 Patienten (89 Beine), bei denen vor 10,2 ± 5,4 Jahren eine partielle Resektion der V. saphena magna durchgeführt worden war. Das verbliebene Venensegment wurde auf seine potenzielle Verwendbarkeit als Bypass mit der farbkodierten Duplexsonographie untersucht. Dazu wurden 3 Kollektive gebildet (Kollektiv A: transplantationsfähige Gefäßsegmente; Kollektiv B: Venen mit leichter Dilatation; Kollektiv C: ungeeignete Gefäße mit folgenden Merkmalen: Venensegment <2 mm, Venenabschnitte <10 cm oder destruktive Veränderung). Ergebnisse: Dem Kollektiv A wurden 57 (65%), dem Kollektiv B 5 (5,6%) und dem Kollektiv C 27 (29,4%) Venensegmente zugeordnet. Die Gründe für eine Unbrauchbarkeit der Venen im Kollektiv C waren: Venensegment zu schmal 9 (28,1%), postphlebitisch 2 (6,2%) oder phlebosklerotisch verändert 4 (12,5%), verschlossen 4 (12,5%), unterbrochen 5 (15,6 %), zu kurz 8 (25%), mit multiplen Seitenästen 2 (6,2%) und fehlend 1 (3,1%). Schlussfolgerung: Die Ergebnisse rechtfertigen die stadiengerechte Operation einer Stammvarikose der V. saphena magna, weil 70,6% der belassenen Venensegmente potenziell als Bypass tauglich sind. Bei 29,4% besteht eine Unbrauchbarkeit des belassenen Segments. Die präoperative sonographische Untersuchung der V. saphena magna vor Transplantation erscheint daher sinnvoll.

[Venous thrombosis in pregnancy]

Lung embolism is one of the most common causes of death during pregnancy and the puerperium. It is usually due to thrombosis of the deep leg and pelvic veins. As a result of modern imaging methods, it can be reliably diagnosed at an early stage. In some cases, special haemostaseological tests can identify congenital or acquired defects. This allows an initial assessment of the individual risk of thrombosis to be made. Body weight-dependent anticoagulation therapy with heparin is the major medication-based treatment. Compression treatment can be administered if accepted by the patient.

[Vascular manifestation of von Recklinghausen neurofibromatosis: case report of venous dysplasia]

We present the case report of a patient with neurofibromatosis and regional dysmorphism in the superficial femoral vein. Colour coded duplex sonography revealed an incidental finding: thickening of a short portion of the vein wall with calcification. This unusual finding strongly suggests a causal relationship. Pathological processes in the arteries have often been described in patients with von Recklinghausen's disease (neurofibromatosis). Dysplastic and hyperplastic reactions of the intramural nerve tissues and the smooth muscle elements in the vascular wall have been observed. This leads to the formation of aneurysms and arteriovenous fistulas and to stenosing processes in the peripheral, visceral and cerebral arteries. However, involvement of the veins in type 1 von Recklinghausen's neurofibromatosis has only been reported in old histopathological studies of medium-sized and small vessels.