Key result
Mechanical and pharmacological thromboprophylaxis strategies are essential for preventing venous thromboembolism in hospitalized patients, with treatment choice guided by individualized bleeding risk.
This review highlights the importance of individualized VTE risk assessment and the appropriate selection of mechanical and pharmacological prophylaxis in hospitalized patients.
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is the most common cause of preventable in-hospital mortality and all hospitalized patients should be VTE risk assessed. The VTE risk should be weighed up against risk of bleeding on an individualized basis to guide choice of prophylaxis. The most common method of mechanical thromboprophylaxis is graduated compression stockings, although others, such as intermittent pneumatic devices, are available. Stockings have the greatest benefit when used in combination with pharmacological prophylaxis. However, stockings are contraindicated in some patients, including those with stroke or peripheral arterial disease. Various options for pharmacological thromboprophylaxis are available. The most commonly used agents are the low-molecular-weight heparins, but newer orally active agents may play an increasing role in the future.
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Figueiredo et al. (2012) conducted a review in Venous thromboembolism. Thromboprophylaxis (mechanical and pharmacological) was evaluated. Mechanical and pharmacological thromboprophylaxis strategies are essential for preventing venous thromboembolism in hospitalized patients, with treatment choice guided by individualized bleeding risk.
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