Are We Justified In Giving DVT Prophylaxis In Moderate Risk Patients Undergoing Elective Surgery?

Aims: To determine effects of mechanical versus pharmacological prophylaxis for Deep Vein Thrombosis/Pulmonary Embolism in patients undergoing elective surgery in moderate risk patients and to know the difference in cost of treatment in 2 groups. Methods: Patients were selected if they fulfil the eligibility criteria. They were described about the nature of the study and written consent was taken if they were willing to take part in the study. All the surgical procedures were carried out as regular standard of care. Patients were selected into either group (mechanical or pharmacological prophylaxis group). Results: Between March 2021 and July 2022, 149 patients were recruited. 80 patients received mechanical prophylaxis whereas 69 patients received pharmacological prophylaxis. None of the patients developed DVT/ PE, irrespective of the groups i.e. Incidence of DVT/ PE in both groups was zero. The cost of treatment was compared among the two groups and statistically significant difference was noted. The pharmacological prophylaxis with a mean cost of Rs.942 proved to be a cheaper option as compared to the mechanical prophylaxis (DVT-18 stockings) with a mean cost of Rs.1998. Conclusion: For patients who underwent elective surgery and are at moderate risk of venous thromboembolism, administration of pharmaco-thromboprophylaxis or mechanical prophylaxis proved to be equally effective with pharmacological prophylaxis being an economical option.