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Updated: May 23, 2026

Point-Of-Care Ultrasound Screening for Proximal Lower Extremity Deep Venous Thrombosis
Published on: February 10, 2023
Primary prevention of venous thromboembolism
R S Figueiredo1, G Stansby, V Bhattacharya
1Consultant Vascular Surgeon, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Sheriff Hill, Gateshead, UK.
Abstract:
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is the most common cause of preventable in-hospital mortality and all hospitalized patients should be VTE risk assessed. The VTE risk should be weighed up against risk of bleeding on an individualized basis to guide choice of prophylaxis. The most common method of mechanical thromboprophylaxis is graduated compression stockings, although others, such as intermittent pneumatic devices, are available. Stockings have the greatest benefit when used in combination with pharmacological prophylaxis. However, stockings are contraindicated in some patients, including those with stroke or peripheral arterial disease. Various options for pharmacological thromboprophylaxis are available. The most commonly used agents are the low-molecular-weight heparins, but newer orally active agents may play an increasing role in the future.
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