Stratification of venous thromboembolism risk in stroke patients by Caprini score

Abstract

Background: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) includes deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolus (PE) is a serious complication in hospitalized stroke patients. This study is designed to examine the incidence of VTE and the effectiveness of chemo thromboprophylaxis in this population. Methods: From January 2015 to April 2018, we calculate the Caprini score for every admitted patient to evaluate VTE risk. For analysis Demographic information, Caprini score, national institutes of health stroke scale (NIHSS) score, prothrombin time (PT), thrombin time (TT), D-Dimer and medical co-morbidity are noted. Results: Of 3,824 inpatients during the study period, 21 patients (0.55%) have VTE complications. Among patients (n=148) with a Caprini score between 0 and 2, 1 patient (0.68%) have VTE. VTE (52.38%) most commonly occurred in patients of Caprini score 7-8 group. In patients with VTE (n=21) age, Caprini score, NIHSS score, National Early Warning Score (NEWS) score, PT, TT, D-Dimer are significantly higher than those (n=3,803) without VTE (P<0.05). Conclusions: The Caprini score is highly recommended to assess the risk of venous thrombosis in stroke patients. Early mechanical and chemical prophylaxis are recommended for patients to reduce the incidence of venous thrombosis.