Thromboembolic Prophylaxis for Morbidly Obese Patients Undergoing Bariatric Surgery

Obesity itself is associated with an increased risk of thromboembolic events. Moreover, most bariatric procedures actually are performed by laparoscopic approach, implying an increased intraabdominal pressure during the surgical procedure that may favor the development of thrombus. Therefore, bariatric surgery is considered a high-risk procedure for thromboembolic events. Actual recommendations are to include low molecular weight heparins (LMWH) and compression stockings in the primary prophylaxis of thromboembolic events. Following these measures, a routine screening of thromboembolic complications with imaging tests is not recommended.