Early movement and following your doctor's instructions are key to preventing blood clots after knee surgery.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of strategies:
1. Early and Regular Movement:
- Why it works: Movement stimulates blood flow in your legs, which helps prevent clots from forming.
- What to do:
- Ankle Pumps: Regularly flex your feet up and down to pump blood from your lower legs. Do this frequently throughout the day.
- Leg Lifts: While in bed, slowly lift one leg at a time, keeping your knee straight.
- Quadriceps Sets: Tighten the muscles on the front of your thigh (quadriceps) while lying down. Hold for a few seconds and release.
- Heel Slides: While lying down, slide your heel towards your buttocks by bending your knee.
- Walking: As soon as your doctor or physical therapist approves, start walking short distances. Gradually increase the distance as you get stronger.
2. Medications:
- Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners): Your doctor may prescribe medications like warfarin, rivaroxaban, apixaban, or enoxaparin to prevent blood clots. These medicines thin your blood, making it less likely to clot.
- Importance: Take these medications exactly as prescribed. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage and duration based on your individual risk factors.
3. Mechanical Compression:
- Sequential Compression Devices (SCDs): These are inflatable cuffs that wrap around your legs and intermittently squeeze them, promoting blood flow.
- Elastic Stockings (Compression Stockings): These stockings provide gentle pressure to your legs, helping to improve circulation. Wear them as instructed by your doctor.
4. Hydration:
- Why it works: Dehydration can thicken your blood, increasing the risk of clots.
- What to do: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
5. Other Important Considerations:
- Follow your doctor's instructions: Adhere to all post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon and physical therapist.
- Attend physical therapy: Physical therapy helps you regain strength and mobility, which is essential for preventing blood clots.
- Report any symptoms: Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any signs of a blood clot, such as:
- Pain, swelling, redness, or warmth in your leg
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
6. Risk Factors:
Discuss your risk factors with your doctor. Factors that may increase your risk of blood clots after surgery include:
- Previous history of blood clots
- Family history of blood clots
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Certain medical conditions (e.g., cancer, heart disease)
- Prolonged immobility
By understanding and addressing these risk factors, you and your healthcare team can take steps to minimize the risk of blood clots after knee surgery.
