Thromboprophylaxis in gynaecology: a review of current evidence

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.