BMJ  2007;335:147-151 (21 July), doi:10.1136/bmj.39247.542477.AE

Clinical Review

Clinical Review

Preventing deep vein thrombosis in hospital inpatients

Augusta Rural Training Site, Eau Claire Family Medicine Residency, University of Wisconsin Department of Family Medicine, 207 West Lincoln, Augusta, WI 54701, USA

The first 150 words of the full text of this article appear below.

• Appropriate use of prophylaxis against deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in hospital inpatients is important for reducing the risk of fatal and non-fatal pulmonary embolism and post-thrombotic complications • For patients at low risk of DVT, ambulation is important, and mechanical methods of prophylaxis (such as graduated compression stockings and intermittent pneumatic compression devices) can provide added protection • Patients at higher risk of DVT should be considered for guideline based anticoagulation with low molecular weight heparin, unfractionated heparin, or vitamin K antagonists unless clearly contraindicated • Fondaparinux may provide additional prophylactic options • The place of aspirin in DVT prophylaxis remains controversial • To ensure adequate prophylaxis against DVT, doctors should be encouraged to follow appropriate guidelines

Most hospital inpatients are at risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and the associated complications of fatal or non-fatal pulmonary embolism and post-thrombotic syndrome. Recognised risk factors for DVT are generally related . . . [Full text of this article]

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