Venous stasis, or venostasis, is a condition of slow blood flow in the veins, usually of the legs. Venous stasis is a risk factor for forming blood clots in veins (venous thrombosis), as with the deep veins of the legs (deep vein thrombosis or DVT). Causes of venous stasis include long periods of immobility that can be encountered from driving, flying, bed rest/hospitalization, or having an orthopedic cast. Recommendations to reduce venous stasis and DVT/PE clinicians often encourage increasing walking, calf exercises, and intermittent pneumatic compression. when possible.
Prevention is possible with Thrombosis prophylaxis methods and practices.
See also
- Venous stasis ulcer
- Virchow's triad