VTE prophylaxis - leg casts

Background

• Lower limb immobilisation (even transient) significantly increases the risk of VTE.
• This is particularly so in those with a predisposition to coagulopathy.
• There is no evidence of increased risk in upper limb immobilisation.

Management

• No strong evidence to support oral anticoagulation
• When indicated, LMWH is effective in preventing VTE
• If started, continue LMWH until PoP is removed

Links

• CEM GEMNet recommendation Jan 2013.