Abstract

The publication of the 1991–1992 report of the National Confidential Enquiry into Perioperative Deaths (NCEPOD) [10] drew attention to prophylaxis against venous thromboembolism in surgical patients as an area of clinical practice that requires attention. The report found that pulmonary embolism is an important cause of mortality in postoperative surgical patients and was responsible for 7 % of all deaths. The role of prophylaxis against venous thromboembolism was not investigated in great detail but the findings suggested that it is not being given to all patients in whom it could be considered appropriate. In high-risk hip replacement patients, for example, 33 % did not receive any prophylaxis against venous thromboembolism. The recommendations made in the NCEPOD report were that every hospital should have an agreed policy for prophylaxis against venous thromboembolism, all surgeons should be made aware of the problem and implementation of the policy should be audited regularly. The aim of this review of the prevention of venous thromboembolism is to identify patients who benefit, discuss the merits of different methods, investigate areas of controversy and explore the role of anaesthetists.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.