20 Feb Blood Clot Risk Elevated for 12 Weeks After Childbirth
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Dr.Hooman Kamel MD
Department of Neurology and the Brain and Mind Research Institute
Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City.
MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings of the study?
Dr. Kamel: The risk of thrombotic events remains higher than normal for twice as long after childbirth as previously thought. However, the absolute risk in any given patient is low, especially after the first 6 weeks.
MedicalResearch.com: Were any of the findings unexpected?
Dr. Kamel: Our hypothesis was that the risk of thrombotic events would be higher than normal beyond 6 weeks, and that is indeed what we found.
MedicalResearch.com: What should clinicians and patients take away from your report?
Dr. Kamel: Patients and providers should be aware that thrombotic risk remains elevated until 12 weeks after delivery, so that any symptoms of possible thrombosis (e.g., shortness of breath, chest pain, leg swelling or pain, sudden neurological symptoms) are evaluated appropriately.
MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this study?
Dr. Kamel: Our findings suggest that future studies should evaluate the risks and benefits of extended postpartum prophylactic therapy in high-risk women (e.g., those with prior thrombosis).
Citation:
Risk of Thrombosis Remains Elevated for 12 Weeks After Labor and Delivery
American Stroke Association 2014 Meeting Report: ISC abstract: Abstract: 216
Last Updated on February 20, 2014 by Marie Benz MD FAAD