COVID-19, long flights, and deep vein thrombosis: What we know so far.
Cardiol J
; 28(6): 941-953, 2021.
Article
in English
| MEDLINE | ID: covidwho-1346686
ABSTRACT
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19]) pandemic has presently stunted the growth of the airline industry. Despite the setbacks, pre-COVID-19 passenger numbers are forecasted to return by as early as 2024. As the industry recovers, the number of long-distance flights will surely continue to increase like it did before the pandemic. The incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) following air travel is also likely to increase. Although not common, the unique environment of air travel exposes individuals with particular health conditions to an elevated risk of acquiring VTEs. Numerous factors increasing the risk of developing VTE related to air travel have been identified, including inherited and acquired flight-related aspects. Non-pharmacological approaches to reduce air travel-related VTEs involve simple foot movements, compression socks and stockings, intermittent pneumatic compression devices, a novel modified airline seat, and foot exercisers. Pharmacological methods include heparins and direct oral anticoagulants. More than 30 reliable articles were evaluated to present the current knowledge regarding air travel-related VTEs, their risk factors, and prophylactic methods. Issues in research methodologies found in the literature were identified and discussed. Further research involving international collaboration projects is recommended. The authors' perspectives regarding long flights in previously infected COVID-19 individuals are also included.
Keywords
Full text:
Available
Collection:
International databases
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Venous Thrombosis
/
COVID-19
Type of study:
Experimental Studies
/
Observational study
/
Prognostic study
Topics:
Long Covid
Limits:
Humans
Language:
English
Journal:
Cardiol J
Year:
2021
Document Type:
Article
Affiliation country:
CJ.a2021.0086
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