e-ISSN: 2764-9415
Introduction: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) results from the formation of thrombi in the endothelial space, following factors related to endothelial injury, venous stasis and coagulation disorders. This scenario can result in deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE), which is the third leading cause of cardiovascular death worldwide. Given the possibility of preventing VTE in the majority of in-hospital cases, it is recommended that every hospital has a formal strategy for VTE prevention, including in patients undergoing elective surgery. To this end, it is possible to use risk stratification scales, both for the development of VTE and the baseline risk of bleeding in post-operative patients. Objective: To provide an institutional protocol that is systematized and updated according to the main national and international literature on the prevention of venous thromboembolism in elective surgeries at the Júlio Muller University Hospital (HUJM/ UFMT). Materials and Methods: A protocol was drawn up based on a systematic analysis of up-to-date scientific evidence on thromboprophylaxis in elective surgeries, adapted to the routine of the Júlio Muller University Hospital (HUJM/UFMT), using the UpToDate, Pubmed and Cochrane Library platforms, as well as the Guidelines of the Brazilian Society of Angiology and Vascular Surgery (SBACV) and the American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP). Conclusion: The patient's risk of developing VTE is largely due to avoidable or predictable risk factors, depending on the type of surgery, mobilization time and risk of bleeding. The use of a protocol for the prevention of venous thromboembolism through risk stratification will allow greater individualization of the patient in relation to established prophylaxis, based on scientific evidence. Further studies on the subject are still needed, especially in the setting of elective surgery.