Implementing National Institute of Clinical Excellence Guidelines for Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis

:IntroductionVenous thromboembolism (VTE) is a serious complication after lower limb injury and surgery. Pursuing prophylactic policies, particularly chemical prophylaxis, has been a debatable issue. In April 2007, the National Institute of Clinical Excellence recommended using chemical and/or mechanical prophylaxis for patients undergoing joint arthroplasty and other orthopedic operations. A list of risk factors predisposing patients to VTE was published. This article discusses the difficulties and methods of implementing the guidelines.Methods and materialPatients undergoing lower limb arthroplasty or treatment for femoral neck fractures were included. In total, 9893 patients required prophylactic treatment for VTE.ResultsThe maximum readmission rate within 3 months of lower limb arthroplasty with a deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism was reduced from 70% in 2005 to 28% in 2009.ConclusionThe incidence of VTE was reduced to one fifth of that before implementing the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines. Thus, it has been valuable to implement the guidelines.