Incidence and risk factors of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in geriatric neurosurgical patients: a retrospective analysis

Abstract

Background
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) are significant complications in geriatric neurosurgical patients. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, diagnosis, and management of DVT and PE among elderly patients undergoing neurosurgical procedures, with a focus on patient demographics, treatment interventions, and outcomes.


Methods
A retrospective analysis was conducted on 732 patients aged over 65 years who were admitted under neurosurgery between January 2019 and December 2022 and underwent neurosurgical procedures. The study examined the diagnostic modalities used for DVT, the distribution of thrombosis sites, and the anticoagulant treatments administered. Statistical significance was assessed for the diagnostic efficacy of various imaging techniques.


Results
Demographic data from 13 patients were analyzed. Females constituted 53.8% of cases, and the predominant age group was 70–75 years. Hypertension (46.2%) and diabetes mellitus (30.8%) were the most common comorbidities. DVT most frequently involved the left lower limb (38.5%), and enoxaparin was the most commonly used anticoagulant (53.8%). Clinical improvement was observed in 61.5% of patients following therapy. Among patients with DVT, 11.1% developed PE, which was predominantly diagnosed using pulmonary CTA (80.0%). Male patients demonstrated a slightly higher incidence of PE, with trunk vessels being the most commonly affected.


Conclusion
This study highlights the need for tailored diagnostic and treatment strategies in geriatric neurosurgical patients to optimize outcomes and minimize thromboembolic risks. Although the incidence of DVT and PE was relatively low within the larger cohort, the findings emphasize the importance of targeted screening, appropriate diagnostic tools, and individualized pharmacological management. Future studies should include larger cohorts and prospective designs to better clarify risk factors and long-term outcomes in this vulnerable population.