Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 13, 2026

A Multicenter MRI Protocol for the Evaluation and Quantification of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Published on: June 2, 2015
Duration of deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis in the surgical patient and its relation to quality issues
1University of Texas Health Center, Houston, 77030, USA. jmuntz@tmhs.org
Background:
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity in patients after major surgery. The US Acting Surgeon General issued a "call to action" to reduce the number of VTE cases nationwide.
Data Sources:
PubMed literature searches were performed to identify original studies.
Results And Conclusions:
Noncompliance with VTE guidelines is common in clinical practice. Thromboprophylaxis is frequently stopped on discharge, not meeting recommendations for standard-duration prophylaxis (7-10 days) because of shorter hospital stays or for extended-duration prophylaxis (10-35 days). Appropriate pharmacologic prophylaxis options for orthopedic surgery patients include the low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWHs), fondaparinux, or warfarin (10-35 days). For patients undergoing abdominal surgery for cancer, the LMWHs are recommended beyond hospitalization (up to 28 days). Performance measures should help establish VTE-prevention policies that close the gap between guideline recommendations and clinical practice in a greater number of hospitals.
Related Concept Videos
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Venous Thrombosis IV: Nursing Management
Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction
Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management
Pulmonary Embolism III: Nursing Management
