Which surgical procedure is associated with an increased risk of developing DVT?

The surgical procedure associated with an increased risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is knee replacement. This risk is primarily due to the nature of the procedure and the postoperative factors involved. Knee replacement is an extensive surgery that requires significant immobilization during recovery. The combination of decreased mobility, potential for vascular trauma during surgery, and increased pressure on lower extremities contributes to the stasis of blood flow, a major factor in DVT formation.

In contrast, procedures like appendectomy, hernia repair, and cholecystectomy generally involve shorter recovery times and less impact on mobility, thereby presenting a lower risk for DVT. While they may also carry some risk, it is significantly less than that associated with knee replacement surgeries. This highlights the importance of understanding patient risks based on specific surgical procedures, particularly in planning postoperative care and interventions to mitigate DVT risk.