PROPHYLAXIS OF DEEP VENOUS THROMBOSIS AND PULMONARY-EMBOLISM - CURRENT RECOMMENDATIONS

Pulmonary embolism is responsible for approximately 150,000 to 200,000 deaths per year in the United States. Venous thromboembolism usually occurs as a complication in patients who are sick and hospitalized, bu t it may also affect ambulant and otherwise healthy individuals. Many patients who die from pulmonary embolism succumb suddenly or within 2 hours after the acute event (i.e., before therapy can be initiated or take effect). Therefore, prevention is the key to reducing death and m orbidity from venous thromboembolism. Effective and safe prophylactic measures against venous thromboembolism are now available for most hig h-risk patients. This article highlights practical approaches to the p revention of venous thromboembolism.