Venous thromboembolism - management in general practice
Chapman, N.H.; Brighton, T.; Harris, M.F.; Caplan, G.A.; Braithwaite, J.; Chong, B.H.
Australian Family Physician 38(1-2): 36-40
2009
ISSN/ISBN: 0300-8495 PMID: 19283234 Document Number: 632850
The diagnosis, treatment and management of venous thromboembolism prophylaxis are increasingly becoming the responsibility of the general practitioner. Effective treatments exist, as do guidelines for management of hospitalised patients. However, very little research has been done into the implementation of management strategies in community based patients. In 2008, an estimated 15 000-23 000 Australians experienced venous thromboembolism (VTE), which includes deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). Retrospective studies report mortality rates following VTE of 5-23%, although in symptomatic patients with adequate anticoagulation, mortality is 1-2%.