Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism after solid organ transplantation: an unresolved problem

Abstract

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major complication after solid organ transplantation (SOT), with an incidence that ranges from 2 to 34%. Besides genetic risk factors such as inherited thrombophilia, other specific risk factors for VTE in SOT recipients include impairment of fibrinolysis produced by corticosteroids, in vitro procoagulant effects of calcineurin inhibitors, endothelial damage due to cytomegalovirus infection, and specific surgical factors. Prevention strategies have not been systematically studied. Therefore, it is mandatory for the international scientific community to conduct large, multicenter, randomized clinical trials to define strategies for the prevention of VTE in SOT recipients.