VENOUS THROMBOEMBOLISM PROPHYLAXIS: A SURVEY OF SURGEONS CURRENT PRACTICE IN HIGH ALTITUDE AREA
Tamer M. Abdelrahman*, Mohammed S. Al Saeed, Rehab A. Karam, Abdullah Fahad Altowairqi, Sara Mohammed Alosaimi, Mutaz Hussain Althobaiti, Khaled Fahad Altowairqi
ABSTRACT
Background: Awareness of venous thrombo-embolism (VTE) and its prophylaxis among surgeons will reduce the incidence of hospital deaths and morbidity in patients undergoing surgery. Objective: In this study we aimed to examine knowledge, attitude and practices of VTE prophylaxis among surgeons in high altitude area. Method: A questionnaire was distributed to surgeons (consultant and Specialist) from different specialty in three hospitals in Al Taif, Saudi Arabia. Results: 86% of our respondents routinely prescribe for thrombo-prophylaxis. 66% of respondents routinely scored patients preoperatively using Wells score. A combination of physical and pharmacological methods was used by 50% of surgeons and 64% of them were begun prophylaxis 2h preoperatively. Conclusions: Surgeons included in our study are generally aware of the importance of perioperative VTE prophylaxis, however, a number of inconsistencies and possible deficiencies exist. Continuous medical education is advised on proper identification of at risk patients, importance of risk stratification, and thrombo-prophylaxis methods and regimens.
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