Objective: Immobility in stroke patients increases the risk of thromboembolism, and the pulmonary embolism following deep vein thrombosis (DVT) may lead to life-threatening state. But in Korea there has been a few studies about DVT in rehabilitation patients. So we investigated the prevalence of DVT in hemiplegic patients and the characteristics of the risk factors in these patients.

Method: Ninety six rehabilitation inpatients with hemiplegia due to brain disease were participated and they had more than 2 scores in pretest probabilities. Muscle power and spasticity of hemiplegic lower limb were assessed. The duration of bed-ridden state and the presence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus and heart disease were evaluated and coagulation factors were also evaluated. Duplex ultrasound and venography were used for diagnosis of DVT, and perfusion scan for pulmonary embolism.

Results: Four patients among ninety six (4.17%) were diagnosed as DVT. In patients with DVT, the weaker muscle power and the longer bed-ridden duration were found.

Conclusion: Prevalence of DVT in hemiplegic patients was 4.17%. The paresis of lower limb and long bed-ridden duration were suggested as risk factors of DVT in hemiplegic patients in Korea.

Keywords :Deep vein thrombosis, Rehabilitation patient, Hemiplegia, Ultrasound