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Deep Vein Thrombosis in Athletes: Prevention and Treatment

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Sports Injuries

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Abstract

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can be seen in almost all races and age groups. Although many of the risk factors have been identified and several agents are currently used in its management and prevention, still it is not possible to predict accurately its development, symptoms, and progression to pulmonary embolism (PE) in a particular setting. Every year, at least 100,000 individuals die of DVT and PE in the USA. DVT is a complication usually occurring after hip fractures of the elderly or surgery for total joint replacement or spinal stenosis and mostly affecting elderly and bedridden patients. But, the frequency of DVT is quite high among athletes and professional sport players. In general, DVT risk is 85% greater among athletes when compared to normal population due to the specific risk factors of sports. DVT and PE may be seen in athletes actively taking part in sportive activities, traveling, exposing to sportive trauma, or undergoing surgery for any reason, even at a relatively young age. In this chapter, the risk factors, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of DVT and PE in athletes are discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Medical Faculty of Yeditepe University, Devlet Yolu, Ankara Caddesi No: 102-104, 34752, Istanbul, Turkey

    Faik Altintaş & Çağatay Uluçay

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  1. Faik Altintaş
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Correspondence to Faik Altintaş .

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  1. Fac. Medicine, Dept. Orthopedics & Traumatology, Hacettepe University, Hasyrcylar Caddesi, Ankara, 94110, Turkey

    Mahmut Nedim Doral

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Altintaş, F., Uluçay, Ç. (2012). Deep Vein Thrombosis in Athletes: Prevention and Treatment. In: Doral, M. (eds) Sports Injuries. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-15630-4_141

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-15630-4_141

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