Work

Clinical impact of deep-vein thrombosis screening in recipients of lung transplants: A contemporary single-center study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Objective: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) events are common after lung transplantation and can have a significant impact on morbidity and mortality. Our objective was to assess the impact of a deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) screening program on VTE incidence and clinical outcomes in recipients of lung transplants. Methods: We conducted a single-center retrospective study of all adults who received lung transplants (≥18 years) at our center between May 2020 and June 2024, excluding multiorgan transplants. Patients were divided into prescreening (May 2020 to June 2022) and screening (June 2022 to June 2024) groups. We evaluated VTE incidence, graft function, bleeding complications, and survival. Results: < .001). There was no difference in the incidence of pulmonary embolus, graft function by percent expiratory volume in 1 second predicted out to 1 year, overall survival out to 1 year, nor bleeding complications between groups. Conclusions: DVT screening in recipients of lung transplants detects clinically insignificant DVTs and may introduce potential harm from overtreatment. The use of DVT-screening programs in recipients of lung transplants should be reconsidered.

Source: JTCVS Open

DOI: 10.1016/j.xjon.2026.101979