Thromboprophylaxis among Australasian colorectal surgeons

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Surgical Oncology
• Thrombosis Research

Background:

• Thromboembolism poses significant risks in colorectal cancer patients.
• Thromboprophylaxis (TP) is underutilized in this population.
• Current guidelines lack specific recommendations for colorectal cancer TP, especially in ambulatory settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess current thromboprophylaxis (TP) practices among Australasian colorectal surgeons.
• To understand surgeons' attitudes towards TP in colorectal cancer management.
• To identify barriers to TP implementation in various treatment phases.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was distributed to 204 members of the Colorectal Surgical Society of Australia and New Zealand.
• Survey responses were collected and analyzed from 128 participating surgeons (63% completion rate).

Main Results:

• Most surgeons follow existing guidelines where applicable.
• Lack of data, ownership, and logistical challenges hinder TP during neoadjuvant treatment.
• Only 54% of surgeons prescribe TP post-hospital discharge, citing logistical constraints.

Conclusions:

• There is a need for more data on thromboembolism risk in colorectal cancer patients across different treatment phases.
• Tumor-specific guidelines incorporating this data are required.
• Logistical barriers to ambulatory TP adoption must be addressed.