Physical Methods for Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis in Stroke

Section Editor: Graeme J Hankey MD, PhD Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and secondary pulmonary embolism (PE) are uncommon but important complications of stroke and often the causes of death and morbidity. There is good evidence that anticoagulants can significantly reduce the risk of DVT (64%) after stroke, but this benefit is offset by a small but definite risk of serious hemorrhages. Physical methods can prevent DVT and PE and are not associated with any bleeding risk. They are effective in some categories of medical and surgical patients, but we do not know whether they are safe and effective in stroke patients. The aim of the review was to assess the effectiveness and safety of physical …