Synonyms in a broader sense
- Thromboembolism prophylaxis
- Thrombosis protection
- Thrombosis prevention
- Thrombosis
- Blood Clot
- Embolism
Definition and introduction
In thrombosis prophylaxis, a distinction is made between physical and medicinal measures. The physical measures include : In drug intervention, a number of different drugs are available to reduce the blood‘s tendency to clot. The points of attack are the different components of the coagulation system.
The differentiated use and dosage of the drugs depend on the risk profile of the person affected.
- Mobilization
- Storage
- Brushing out the veins
- Vein Compressions
- Promotion of the return flow through gymnastics
In order to better understand the various measures of thrombosis prophylaxis, it is helpful to know some basic facts about blood coagulation. The following are essentially responsible for blood coagulation Blood coagulation (also known as hemostasis) is divided into primary and secondary hemostasis.
In addition, the speed of blood flow, the composition or toughness of the blood and the willingness to clot are of crucial importance (Virchow Triad). The coagulation factors IX, X, VII and II are dependent on vitamin K in their function. Primary and secondary hemostasis as well as endogenous and exogenous pathways do not occur alone or sequentially, but rather in parallel.
- The nucleusless blood platelets (thrombocytes)
- The coagulation factors
- As well as some other factors
Primary hemostasis and platelet function
The aim of primary hemostasis is to stop bleeding by forming a platelet (thrombus). The platelets are naturally involved in this process, as are a number of different factors (e.g. von Willebrand factor) and receptors. If, for example, a blood vessel is injured, it contracts in the primary reaction (vasoconstriction) to minimize blood loss and slow down the blood flow.
The components of the now exposed tissue as well as the inner layer of the vessels (endothelium) now ensure that the platelets from the blood stream can adhere exactly there. The platelets are further activated by the adhesion, emptying their contents and changing their shape. With the formation of a clot (also known as a white blood clot), primary hemostasis is complete. It serves as a “temporary seal”.
