Vascular surgery mnemonic

Virchow's triad for venous thrombosis

The mnemonic

SEH

What each word stands for

  • SStasis of blood flow
  • EEndothelial injury
  • HHypercoagulability

Why it matters clinically

Explains risk in immobilised, postoperative, cancer and pregnant patients, and guides prophylaxis.

Where it stops being reliable

Names the three factors but does not quantify risk or specify which prophylaxis to use.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Vascular surgery mnemonic?

SEH. It helps you recall: Virchow's triad for venous thrombosis.

What does "S" stand for?

Stasis of blood flow

What does "E" stand for?

Endothelial injury

What does "H" stand for?

Hypercoagulability

What are all the parts of the SEH mnemonic?

S: Stasis of blood flow; E: Endothelial injury; H: Hypercoagulability.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Vascular surgery in General Surgery.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Names the three factors but does not quantify risk or specify which prophylaxis to use.

How is this useful clinically?

Explains risk in immobilised, postoperative, cancer and pregnant patients, and guides prophylaxis.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a General Surgery question about Vascular surgery.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.