Anaesthesia & surgical complications

Venous thrombosis

During periods of immobility such as during surgery blood flow in the legs is reduced and clots can develop. A clot localised in the leg is not dangerous but if the clot dislodges and travels to the lungs a fatal pulmonary embolus can occur. To reduce the risk of this occurring we use several techniques.

• Anti embolus stockings. You will be asked to wear compression stockings during the operative procedure and following surgery until you are mobile.
• During surgery pneumatic compression leggings are used to promote good circulation of blood in the lower leg. These may be continued post operatively which can be disturbing as they intermittingly squeeze your calves but when necessary they are a vital safety precaution.
• Early mobilisation. You will be encouraged to get out of bed as soon as possible after surgery. At times this may seem hard but is very important for protecting against blood clots, chest infections and generally improving your well being.
• Heparin injections. Very occasionally in high risk cases injections of heparin which is a blood thinning agent are used.