Master of Public Health

Novel Therapeutic Medications for Venous Thromboembolism Prevention in Trauma Patients: Findings from the Consensus Conference to Implement Optimal VTE Prophylaxis in Trauma

AUTHORS

ABSTRACT

Trauma patients are at high risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE). Despite evidence-based guidelines and concerted efforts in trauma centers to implement optimal chemoprophylaxis strategies, VTE remains a frequent diagnosis in trauma patients. Current chemoprophylaxis strategies focus on the subcutaneous injection of low molecular weight heparin which is administered twice daily. Novel approaches to pharmacologic VTE prophylaxis have the potential to reduce VTE rates by improving patient compliance through oral administration or through their ability to target alternative pathways that mediate thrombosis. While novel pharmacologic VTE prophylaxis strategies have been studied in non-trauma patients, there is a paucity of literature in trauma patients where the risk of thrombosis versus hemorrhage must be carefully considered. As a component of the 2022 Consensus Conference to Implement Optimal VTE Prophylaxis in Trauma, this review provides an update of the novel chemoprophylaxis agents for potential use in trauma patients. Here, we will consider the relative risks and benefits related to the use of these drugs, evaluate the current literature in non-trauma patients, and consider future directions that could potentially improve post-trauma VTE prophylaxis.

Tags: alumni publications 2022