Authors

Lourdes León Gil, Sylvia Díaz Martín, Elena Rojas Barra, Diego Martínez Iglesias

Position

Estudiantes de 2º de Enfermería de la Universidad Europea de Madrid.

Contact email: sylviadiazmartin@gmail.com

Abstract

Introduction: low molecular weight heparin (LMWHs), specifically enoxoparin, is used for the prevention and treatment of thrombotic diseases. Complications include bleeding that is usually minor and not significant and manifests as haematomas in the area of administration (abdominal wall).
Objectives: to determine the percentage of patients who develop a hematoma in the abdominal wall following the administration of enoxoparin; To quantify the size of the hematomas; To determine the possible risk factors that favour the development of hematomas.
Material and methods: randomised prospective study of hospitalised patients. Inclusion criteria: to receive enoxoparin SC as treatment for at least 3 days. Following the administration of the drug a follow up study was carried out to assess the presence or absence of a hematoma. Studied variables were: age, sex, BMI, dose, interval and possible concomitant medication.
Results: 39 patients (53,8% males), mean age 63,3 and a BMI of 26,2, the majority of whom received a 40 mg dose to prevent thrombotic disease. 20 patients (51,3%) developed hematomas (8 with large sized hematomas and 12 with small-sized hematomas) and were older and had a larger BMI (p<0,05) than those who had not developed a hematoma.
Conclusions: the administration of enoxoparin SC frequently results in the appearance of hematomas at the injection site (abdominal wall), mostly in older patients who are obese or overweight.

Keywords:

low molecular weight heparin (LMWH); hematomasabdominal wall

Versión en Español

Título:

Hematomas en la pared abdominal asociados a la administración de enoxoparina subcutánea