Venous Thromboembolism in Trauma

Trauma patients are at increased risk for developing venous thromboembolism (VTE), which includes pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis. Despite evidence-based guidelines and concerted efforts to implement optimal prophylaxis strategies, VTE remains a frequent diagnosis in trauma patients. Standard prophylaxis dosing of low-molecular-weight heparin is insufficient in trauma, shifting focus toward alternative dosing strategies to include anti-Xa-guided dosage, weight-based dosing, and anti-platelet agents. Trauma patients who develop VTE require therapeutic anticoagulation, presenting a challenge due to increased risk for bleeding. Post-discharge VTE prophylaxis and treatment guidelines also identify patients at the highest risk for developing complications of VTE.

This book provides a thorough yet practical perspective on the prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism from admission to discharge. It focuses on the importance of a multidisciplinary approach for preventing and treating venous thromboembolism, highlighting the importance of updated guidelines from the WTA, AAST, and Committee on Trauma. Chapters are thematically arranged in five sections highlighting key areas of care, covering background and systems, VTE prophylaxis, treatment, discharge therapy, and special populations.