March 21,2023

TOG Article: Thromboprophylaxis in gynaecology: a review of current evidence

Key content

  • Thromboembolism is a major cause of preventable morbidity and mortality. Hospital acquired thrombosis (HAT) accounts for 50–60% of all thromboembolic events.
  • As well as effects on patient safety, there are considerable cost implications to both prophylaxis and treatment.
  • While guidance exists on thromboprophylaxis for patients in obstetrics and those undergoing general surgery, there is a paucity of guidance relating to gynaecological practice.
  • Increasing prevalence of risk factors and multimorbidity is paralleled by higher risk of thromboembolic events.
  • Gynaecological surgery presents some unique risk factors for thrombosis.