Flight microangiopathy is the presence of peripheral edema associated with an air flight.
Typical duration of flight: 7 or more hours
Causes of flight microangiopathy:
(1) increased capillary filtration
(2) decreased cabin pressures
(3) restricted space
(4) restricted mobility for prolonged periods
(5) altered fluid balance
People listed as being at increased risk:
(1) those with varicose veins
(2) those with venous insufficiency
(3) people with a history of edema after a prolonged airflight
Additional people who may be at risk (not listed in paper):
(1) heart failure
(2) renal failure
(3) liver failure
(4) malnutrition (depressed oncotic pressure from low albumin)
Prevention:
(1) be mobile during the flight
(2) avoid being cramped for prolonged periods
(3) wear elastic compression stockings
(4) consider use of Venoruton (Paroven, O-betahydroxyethyl-rutosides), especially in patients with varicose veins or venous insufficiency
(5) evaluate patients for risk factors associated with deep vein thrombosis
