Anest. intenziv. Med. 2021;32(4-5):218-224 | DOI: 10.36290/aim.2021.046

Prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism in critically ill patientsReview Article

Cihlář R.^{1, 2}, Šrámek V.^{1, 3}, Suk P.^{1, 3, 4}

¹ Lékařská fakulta Masarykovy univerzity, Brno

² Anesteziologicko‑resuscitační oddělení Nemocnice České Budějovice, a. s.

³ Anesteziologicko‑resuscitační klinika, Fakultní nemocnice u sv. Anny v Brně

⁴ Mezinárodní centrum klinického výzkumu, Fakultní nemocnice u sv. Anny v Brně

Thromboembolism is a complication occurring in all groups of in-patients. The incidence is higher in the critically ill due to many associated risk factors. Preventive measures based firstly on pharmacological and mechanical thromboprophylaxis significantly reduce the risk of deep venous thrombosis and subsequent pulmonary embolism, which is the most serious complication linked to high mortality. The aim of this review is to describe options of thromboembolic prophylaxis and their complications. Concurrently, clinical conditions, which influence thromboprophylaxis, are reviewed with special focus on circulatory, renal, and hepatic failure. Summary of recent guidelines on thromboprophylaxis in critically ill patients is also included.

Keywords: deep venous thrombosis, venous thromboembolism, heparin, low molecular weight heparin, prophylaxis, intensive care.

Received: April 15, 2021; Revised: July 17, 2021; Accepted: October 7, 2021; Published: December 2, 2021  Show citation