Thrombosis prophylaxis in critically ill patients

Incidence of deep vein thrombosis in critically ill patients depends on the underlying disease but may be as high as 60%. The Surviving Sepsis Campaign clearly recommends administering anticoagulation in the absence of specific contraindications in patients with severe sepsis or septic shock. The article discusses risk factor for thromboembolic events in critical illness as well as means of non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic thrombosis prophylaxis. Peripheral vasoconstriction, edema, shock, and administration of catecholamines may reduce the bioavailability and efficacy of subcutaneous administration of low molecular weight heparin. This article further elaborates on the problem and pathophysiology of heparin resistance. Continuous intravenous administration of new anticoagulants may be a promising alternative to indirect anticoagulants. Severity of illness and SAPS II-score determine dosing of the direct thrombin inhibitor argatroban which needs to be about 10-times lower than in patients without critical illness. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.