Prophylaxis of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Current recommendations.

Pulmonary embolism is responsible for approximately 150,000 to 200,000 deaths per year in the United States. Venous thromboembolism usually occurs as a complication in patients who are sick and hospitalized, but it may also affect ambulant and otherwise healthy individuals. Many patients who die from pulmonary embolism succumb suddenly or within 2 hours after the acute event (i.e., before therapy can be initiated or take effect). Therefore, prevention is the key to reducing death and morbidity from venous thromboembolism. Effective and safe prophylactic measures against venous thromboembolism are now available for most high-risk patients. This article highlights practical approaches to the prevention of venous thromboembolism.