Travellers’ thrombosis

Abstract

Anecdotal reports have suggested a link between flying and the development of blood clots. A recent prospective study looking at passengers before and after flying has demonstrated a much higher incidence of asymptomatic venous thrombosis than we expected. In the same paper, graduated elastic compression stockings reduced this incidence of asymptomatic venous thrombosis. Further studies are required to see how many passengers develop symptomatic deep vein thrombosis and to assess the overall incidence of venous thromboembolic disease. A major epidemiological study, an interventional study to assess the efficacy of mechanical methods of venous thrombosis prophylaxis and the effect of graduated compression stockings, and studies to look at the effect of the cabin environment on thromboembolism are planned.