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Venous thromboembolism in the intensive care unit
B M Legere1, R A Dweik, A C Arroliga
1Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio, USA.
Clinics in Chest Medicine
|July 1, 1999
Summary
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major cause of illness and death in hospitalized patients. This review covers VTE risk factors, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment in critically ill individuals.
Area of Science:
- Critical Care Medicine
- Vascular Medicine
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality in hospitalized populations.
- Critically ill patients represent a vulnerable group with a high risk of VTE.
- Understanding VTE is crucial for improving outcomes in this patient cohort.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of venous thromboembolism in the critically ill.
- To highlight key aspects including risk identification, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies.
- To consolidate current knowledge on VTE for clinicians managing complex patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on venous thromboembolism in critically ill patients.
- Synthesis of information on risk factors, diagnostic modalities, and therapeutic interventions.
- Discussion of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism as interconnected manifestations of VTE.
Main Results:
- Identification of specific risk factors predisposing critically ill patients to VTE.
- Evaluation of various diagnostic strategies for timely and accurate VTE detection.
- Outline of evidence-based prophylaxis and treatment guidelines for VTE.
Conclusions:
- Venous thromboembolism poses a substantial threat to critically ill patients.
- Effective VTE management requires a multi-faceted approach encompassing risk assessment, prompt diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.
- Continued vigilance and adherence to guidelines are essential for reducing VTE-related complications.