Abstract
In Japan, Many surgeons do not pay attention to prophylaxis against venous thromboembolism (VTE) after gastroenterological surgery. However, the incidence of VTE in Japan is regarded to be almost the same as in Western countries. Moreover, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) sometimes induces fatal pulmonary thromboembolism (PE), therefore, it is necessary to perform optimal prophylaxis against VTE according to the risk stratification after surgery. For example, we recommend low-molecular weight heparin combined with mechanical prophylaxis using elastic stockings or intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) for middle-aged or elderly patients having gastroenterological cancer. Moreover, it is necessary to consider the balance of the values and preferences of prophylaxis against VTE, and toxicities such as bleeding complications when we perform pharmacologic prophylaxis by estimating the operative method and background in each patient.
