NASA’s Office of the Chief Health and Medical Officer (OCHMO) has been working to establish a vte risk score for astronauts, following several cases of venous thromboembolisms (VTEs) during ISS missions. The vte risk is a major concern for space agencies, as it can have serious consequences for astronauts’ health. In April 2026, a working group was initiated to review updated VTE case information and discuss progress of research and clinical activities intended to mitigate the risk of VTE during spaceflight.
The working group’s conclusions emphasized that stasis in the left internal jugular vein (IJV) is consistently viewed as a dominant risk factor for VTE in microgravity. However, there is active debate regarding the relative contributions of slow qualitative flow, endothelial factors, and/or retrograde flow. The limitations of current in-flight ultrasound capabilities to accurately measure stasis/slow flow were cited as a concern, especially if using only stasis as a factor for indicating the need for prophylaxis.
VTE Risk Factors
The working group identified several vte risk factors, including stasis, retrograde flow, and endothelial factors. These factors can contribute to the formation of blood clots in the veins, which can be life-threatening if they break loose and travel to the lungs. The working group recommended assessing all other risk factors, in addition to stasis, to determine when prophylaxis is warranted.
A VTE Risk Score for Astronauts Algorithm was developed, which includes providing anticoagulation prophylaxis for stasis alone, or a combination of other thrombosis risk factors that are weighted by terrestrial literature. This algorithm will help NASA to better assess the vte risk for astronauts and take preventive measures to mitigate it.
Implications of VTE Risk
The implications of vte risk are significant, as it can affect not only the health and safety of astronauts but also the success of space missions. If an astronaut develops a blood clot during a mission, it can require emergency medical attention, which may not be readily available in space. Furthermore, the risk of VTE can also impact the duration and scope of space missions, as astronauts may need to take preventive measures or receive treatment during the mission.
- Stasis in the left internal jugular vein (IJV) is a dominant risk factor for VTE in microgravity
- Slow qualitative flow, endothelial factors, and/or retrograde flow may also contribute to VTE risk
- A VTE Risk Score for Astronauts Algorithm has been developed to assess vte risk and provide anticoagulation prophylaxis
Future Directions
NASA will continue to monitor and assess the vte risk for astronauts, and update its guidelines and protocols as necessary. The agency will also work to develop new technologies and methods to mitigate the risk of VTE during spaceflight. As space missions become longer and more frequent, it is essential to address the vte risk and ensure the health and safety of astronauts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the vte risk is a significant concern for space agencies, and NASA has been working to establish a vte risk score for astronauts. The agency’s efforts to mitigate the risk of VTE during spaceflight are crucial to ensuring the health and safety of astronauts, and the success of space missions. As our understanding of vte risk factors and implications continues to evolve, it is essential to stay updated on the latest developments and research in this field.
Source: nasa.gov.
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