Turk Plastik, Rekonstruktif ve Estetik Cerrahi Dergisi, cilt.21, sa.2, ss.10-15, 2013 (Scopus)
Introduction: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) are important causes of morbidity and mortality for patients undergoing Plastic Surgical operations. In this study we evaluated the results of the survey which is prepared to identify the level of the consciousness about the venous thromboembolism (VTE) of the Turkish Plastic Surgeons. On the basis of this survey we also aimed to define the risk factors for VTE and the preferred methods for VTE prophylaxis. We also compared the results of this survey with the literature. Material and Methods: We prepared a survey composed of 2 pages and 7 questions, regarding the Plastic Surgical operations and VTE. The printed forms of this survey were distributed to the Turkish plastic surgeons in two national congresses of the Turkish Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. The electronic forms were distributed through the web page of the Society and the results were collected via e-mails. Results: The study included 99 surveys (57 electronic and 42 printed). Ninety percent of the participants were administering DVT prophylaxis. Ninety four percent of the participants were evaluating the risk factors for VTE before administering VTE prophylaxis. Conclusion: The easiest and the cheapest way to prevent the morbidity and mortality due to VTE is prophylaxis. It is necessary to find out the risk factors for the Plastic Surgical operations. It is also necessary to create a Plastic Surgery specific protocol for VTE prophylaxis.