Introduction:

Traumatic injuries are one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Up to six million people die due to this cause. Trauma patients are at risk for hypercoagulable states and are at increased risk for venous thromboembolic disease. Thromboprophylaxis refers to any intervention used to prevent the development of venous thromboembolism such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary thromboembolism.

Objective:

To carry out a practical review of the main mechanisms of thromboprophylaxis and its main schemes in relation to orthopedic trauma.

Methods:

A search for original research articles was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Lilacs, and Science Direct databases. The keywords and MeSH terms related to anticoagulants, venous thromboembolism, and pulmonary embolism were selected among others. Most of the bibliography used had a publication range of no more than 5 years.

Conclusions:

Patients who suffer trauma are at risk of hypercoagulable states and these increase the risk of venous thromboembolic disease. In order to prevent it, different drugs are used in thromboprophylaxis, such as low molecular weight heparins, among others, as well as other compression devices.

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