How can leg fractures lead to a heart attack?

Fractures can cause deep vein thrombosis, where a blood clot forms in deep leg veins. This clot can travel to the chest, potentially leading to severe complications such as a heart attack.

Should patients with fractures see a cardiologist?

Yes, patients with limb fractures are advised to consult a cardiologist alongside their orthopedist to rule out the risk of dangerous clot-related complications.

What cardiac risk do pregnant women face with breathlessness?

Pregnant women experiencing breathlessness in their first trimester should seek immediate cardiac evaluation, as underlying heart issues could pose serious risks.

Home / Health / Fractures May Trigger Heart Attacks: Cardiologists Warn

Fractures May Trigger Heart Attacks: Cardiologists Warn

13 Feb

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Summary

Leg fractures can lead to deep vein thrombosis and potential heart attack.
Patients with fractures should consult cardiologists alongside orthopedists.
Pregnant women with breathlessness need immediate cardiac evaluation.

Fractures May Trigger Heart Attacks: Cardiologists Warn

A press conference held on Thursday highlighted a significant, often overlooked, risk associated with leg fractures: deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Dr. Rishi Sethi of KGMU's Cardiology Department explained that a blood clot forming after a fracture can travel to the chest, potentially leading to severe complications, including heart attack. He stressed the importance of patients with limb fractures consulting cardiologists, not just orthopedists, to assess and prevent clot-related dangers.

Experts also cautioned pregnant women about breathlessness during the first trimester, recommending immediate cardiac evaluation for potential underlying heart conditions. This advice comes ahead of CARDIOCON 2026, a conference on heart diseases scheduled for February 13-14 at KGMU. The event will gather national and international cardiologists to discuss advancements in cardiac care. Dr. Akshay Pradhan noted low awareness of clot formation risks post-fracture, emphasizing that prolonged immobility increases this danger.