Venous Thromboembolism in Brain Tumor Patients: A Review of Literature

Abstract

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a relatively common and well-described condition, affecting approximately 1-2% of the general population. VTE can lead to significant morbidity and death via pulmonary embolism (PE). During the post-operative period, VTE occurs at higher rates due to natural thrombotic responses to injury and limited post-operative mobility. In general, rates of post-operative VTE are higher in patients undergoing operations for cranial and spinal lesions than for lesions of other types, a phenomenon that is not fully explained. Several studies have demonstrated that other risk factors for VTE include age, sex, ethnicity, hospital stay length, and coagulation state. Aggressive chemical and mechanical measures for VTE prophylaxis are indicated in the postoperative period to prevent the formation of VTE. Here we review the literature on VTE in brain tumor patients, with a focus on their etiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prophylaxis.