[Detection of deep vein thrombosis in preoperative patients using venous ultrasonography].

Background: Using Doppler ultrasonography (US), deep vein thrombosis (DVT) has been detected in the lower limbs of preoperative patients.

Methods: Of 1,087 patients scheduled for surgery from January to June 2002, US was performed in 85 patients with a history of thromboembolism, a presence of abnormality in the lower extremities, or prolonged bed rest.

Results: In five patients thrombi were detected by US, but not in patients with a history of thromboembolism. To prevent pulmonary thromboembolism, prophylactic treatments were performed in 5 patients with DVT complications.

Conclusions: We conclude that US should be performed on the preoperative patients with a presence of abnormality in the lower extremities or those who have had prolonged bed rest.