[Prevention of venous thromboembolism in surgical patients]

Venous thromboembolism is a major risk for surgical patients during the perioperative period. Prevention of perioperative venous thromboembolism remains a critical component of surgical patient care. The risk for venous thromboembolism in surgical patients can be stratified by their risk factors and by the type of operation. Pharmacological prophylaxis for venous thromboembolism includes unfractionated heparin, low-molecular weight heparin, fondaparinux, vitamin K antagonists, and the new oral anticoagulants (direct factor Xa inhibitors or direct thrombin inhibitor). Mechanical devices such as graduated compression stockings, intermittent pneumatic compressions, and venous foot pumps are also effective modalities for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis. The optimal preventive measure of venous thromboembolism should be based on the degree of risk for venous thromboembolism while balancing potential treatment benefits and risks in each individual patient.