Venous thromboembolism. Risk factors and prophylaxis.

Most deaths from pulmonary embolism can be prevented by providing adequate prophylaxis for hospital patients who are at high risk for venous thromboembolism. Physicians, however, must be able to identify high-risk patients (including those with major trauma, hip or knee replacement, or pelvic fractures) and prescribe an appropriate prophylactic agent for each patient according to his or her level of risk. A number of prophylactic methods have been proven effective in the prevention of venous thromboembolism, including low-dose heparin, low-molecular-weight heparin, warfarin, graduated compression stockings, and intermittent pneumatic compression of the legs.