Prevention of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism

Venous thromboembolism is a major cause of perioperative morbidity and mortality. Immobilized medical patients are also at risk. Long-term sequelae represent a chronic health burden. Hospitalized patients should be assessed for their risk of thromboembolism and bleeding at regular intervals. Risk stratification, using recommended models can be used to guide the choice of thromboprophylaxis. Both mechanical and pharmacological interventions reduce the incidence of venous thromboembolism. Extended prophylaxis is now recommended following high-risk orthopaedic and cancer surgeries and a number of newer oral antithrombotic agents are now available for this. Anaesthesia should be tailored to minimize the risk of venous stasis and maximize early postoperative mobilization.