Which procedure is associated with a higher risk of VTE during surgery?

Surgeries that are longer than 30 minutes are associated with a higher risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) due to several factors related to the duration of the procedure and patient immobility. Prolonged surgical times can lead to stasis of blood flow, particularly in the lower extremities, where the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) increases. Additionally, longer surgeries often require the patient to be in a single position, which further compounds the risk by limiting movement and promoting venous stasis.

Moreover, the inflammatory response triggered by surgery can predispose patients to the formation of blood clots. As the length of the surgery increases, so does the potential for this inflammatory response and subsequent hypercoagulability, which is a significant factor in the development of VTE.

In contrast, shorter surgeries, minimally invasive procedures, and outpatient surgeries typically involve less time under anesthesia and often allow for quicker recuperation and movement post-operatively, thereby reducing the risk of developing VTE. Understanding the relationship between surgical duration and VTE risk is crucial for implementing appropriate preventive measures such as anticoagulation therapy and mobilization strategies during and after the surgical procedure.