Educational Series: Prevention of VTE in Colorectal Surgery

In this review:

This review focuses on the incidence and prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in colorectal surgical patients. VTE, with an estimated overall prevalence of 1.4-2.4% in this population, is a potentially preventable condition increasing morbidity, mortality, hospitalisation length and cost of care.1 While the risk of VTE is highest in the first 2 weeks post surgery, it may remain elevated for weeks or months after discharge from hospital.2,3 It is imperative that the risk of VTE is recognised and thromboprophylaxis used appropriately in patients undergoing colorectal surgery.

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