Evidence for the prevention of venous thromboembolism

Abstract

Patients undergoing major orthopaedic surgery are at high risk of developing venous thromboembolism (VTE). VTE is preventable and venous prophylaxis consensus groups recommend that each patient is assessed for risk of VTE and then stratified into one of the three categories of risk. Rick stratification enables the choice of the most appropriate preventative interventions. This article examines a decision making framework for VTE prevention with particular focus on a validated risk assessment model (RAM) to facilitate risk stratification. The relevant literature is also scrutinised in terms of the best venous antithrombotic strategies, for patients undergoing major orthopaedic surgery, according to scientific evidence.