Abstract
Background: We herein introduce our program for the prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with malignant diseases. Methods: All patients (1,408 males and 750 females) elected to undergo surgery in our Department were surveyed. Surveillance was conducted three times a week, and data were collected prospectively. Results: The mean age of patients was 63, and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 22.2. Open and laparoscopic surgery were performed on 1,311 and 847 patients, respectively. The mean operation time was 306 min. Elastic stocking and/or an intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) device was used in 99% of patients for one day after the operation. Pharmacological VTE prophylaxis was performed in 6.2% of patients. Symptomatic VTE was detected preoperatively in 3 patients (0.14%), and postoperatively in 4 patients (0.19%). No fatal VTE was detected. Conclusion: The ratio of pharmacological VTE prophylaxis remains low compared to the mechanical prophylaxis. Appropriate VTE prophylaxis according to the risk of VTE may reduce the incidence of symptomatic VTE.
