Thromboembolic Disorders during Pregnancy: Cardiologist Perspective

Abstract

The hematologic changes which occur during pregnancy make it a hypercoagulable state. Various factors such as hereditary thrombophilia, obesity, etc. increase the risk of venous thromboembolism in these patients. Though the prevalence is low, it can contribute to significant mortality and morbidity. Deep vein thrombosis is the most common type of venous thromboembolism and pulmonary embolism can sometimes be fatal. Various diagnostic modalities like compression duplex ultrasound of leg veins, echo, ventilation-perfusion scan, and computed tomographic pulmonary angiogram can help in diagnosis. Proper treatment can improve both maternal and fetal outcome.