Risk of and Prophylaxis for Venous Thromboembolism in Hospital Patients

Abstract

Objective: To review the published clinical data on prophylaxis for thromboembolism in order to develop general guidelines to encourage the establishment of local protocols for management. Data sources: Published papers on thromboembolism over the period 1991–1997 were identified by Medline search and/or from the authors' personal literature collections and reviewed. Study selection: A total of 981 studies were identified. Only those papers reporting randomized studies with clearly defined diagnostic methods and clear end-points were included in this review. Data extraction: The available evidence for each specialty was summarized and reviewed by the authors responsible for each specialty, prior to presentation and discussion of their findings within the group. Where a consensus opinion was achieved in a speciality, general guidelines for thromboprophylaxis were summarized. Where a consensus could not be agreed, recommendations for further work were made. Data synthesis: There is evidence to support the preferred use of low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWHs) over unfractionated heparin (UFH) in orthopaedic surgery, major trauma and general surgery. However, the ideal duration of thromboprophylaxis has yet to be defined. The use of once daily subcutaneous administration of LMWH offers major practical advantages and may have significant cost saving implications. Further work is required to investigate the use of thromboprophylaxis in minimal access surgery, trauma, elective lower limb surgery, hip fracture and pregnancy; to compare the efficacy of LMWH and mechanical prophylaxis; and to investigate extended prophylaxis after discharge. Conclusions: There is overwhelming evidence that thromboembolic prophylaxis reduces the incidence of postoperative deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Recommendations concerning the management of these patients when stratified into low, moderate and high risk are made with the suggestion that hospitals develop their own guidelines for the treatment of these patients.