EP.FRI.771 National audit on VTE prophylaxis for lower limb injuries treated in a plaster cast

Abstract

Abstract Aims Audit to assess Orthopaedic departments’ compliance with NICE guidelines on Venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis published in 2010, specifically looking at VTE practices for patients with lower limb injuries treated in a plaster cast. Methods A telephonic survey was carried out on junior doctors within orthopaedic departments of 66 hospitals across all regions of England. A questionnaire was completed regarding VTE risk assessment, prophylaxis and hospital guidelines etc. Data collected from August 2016 till February 2017. Results 83% (n = 55) of trusts routinely give VTE prophylaxis to these patients. 96% (n = 64) give Chemoprophylaxis of some sort. Formal VTE assessments are performed in 81% (n = 54) and 77% (n = 51) have a local VTE prophylaxis policy. Conclusions We conclude that Orthopaedic departments across England have increased compliance with NICE guidelines for VTE prophylaxis. However there is considerable variation in practice, especially in duration and chemoprophylaxis agent. We attribute this to the lack of specific NICE guidelines for this cohort of patients. We aim that this study can influence NICE to introduce added guidance that will standardise practice.