Venous thromboembolism in the intensive care unit

Venous thromboembolic disease has emerged as a significant cause of morbidi ty and mortality in hospitalized patients. This article reviews the salient features of venous thromboembolism as they pertain to the critically ill. Emphasis is placed on identifying risk factors, diagnostic strategies, prop hylaxis, and treatment of this disorder. Deep venous thrombosis and pulmona ry embolism, both being manifestations of the same disease processes, are c onsidered together in this discussion of venous thromboembolism.