Are SCD's Enough? A Look at Incidence of Venous Thromboembolism Post-Kidney Transplant

Kidney transplant one year graft survival is approximately 95%. Outcomes of kidney transplantation can be complicated by a number of factors including the occurrence of thrombotic events. Data suggest kidney transplant patients experience a hypercoagulable state independent of previously defined risk factors, particularly in the first six months following transplantation. Current literature suggest the rate of VTE to be anywhere between 0.6 to 25% post-kidney transplant and may increase the risk of graft failure by 30%. There is currently no consensus for the prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in this patient population. The current standard of care for VTE prophylaxis in post-kidney transplant patients at the University of Utah is sequential compression devices (SCDs) and early ambulation. Conclusion: Majority of VTE events occurred within the first 90 days post-kidney transplant, at a median time of 50 days. Based on this data, SCDs may provide adequate protection from VTEs in this patient population, although more information is needed. May consider using chemoprophylaxis in patients with delayed graft function.