Overview of VTE prophylaxis

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) refers to a blood clot that starts in a vein. The term VTE encompasses a wide spectrum of thromboembolic conditions, ranging from distal deep vein thrombosis (DVT), through proximal DVT to fatal pulmonary embolism (PE).

VTE can lead to serious adverse outcomes, including increased risk of recurrent thrombosis, morbidity from post-thrombotic syndrome or death. DVT is also associated with the development of PE. Most deaths from PE occur either before the pulmonary embolus has been diagnosed or before intervention has been started.

Many cases of VTE are preventable, so it is vital to optimise VTE prophylaxis in any situation predisposing to VTE.