Preventive and therapeutic approach to venous thromboembolic disease and pulmonary embolism--can death from pulmonary embolism be prevented?

Venous thromboembolism produces chronic sequelae in the legs and occasional immediate mortality due to pulmonary embolism. Because it occurs in certain high risk situations (for example, after surgery) its prevention is a practical proposition. This has been attempted using many different approaches. Administration of low dose heparin with or without dihydroergotamine to enhance venous return has been one of the most widely tested regimens. There is little doubt that this can prevent, in many patient groups, postoperative deep venous thrombosis and fatal pulmonary embolism, with a low incidence of adverse reactions. Some particularly high risk postoperative patient groups (for example, those undergoing hip surgery) warrant more aggressive measures to prevent thrombosis. Surveys have shown that increasing use is being made of this approach, and it is hoped that all surgeons will adopt a policy that will reduce postoperative venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. A reduction in the incidence of venous thromboembolism in large acute myocardial infarction is achieved by low dose heparin, although early mobilization is important. In addition, many of the patients at risk merit full dose anticoagulation to prevent intracardiac thromboembolism. Established venous thrombosis is treated effectively by intravenous heparin, followed by warfarin to keep the prothrombin time at 1.2 to 1.5 times control, as assessed using rabbit thromboplastin; most patients need three months of treatment. Anticoagulation is warranted for pulmonary embolism, with fibrinolytic therapy reserved for patients with massive embolism and hemodynamic compromise. Embolectomy is a heroic measure, which may occasionally be lifesaving.