Venous thromboembolism in intensive care patients

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) represents a spectrum of disease that encompasses deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism (PE), and, in critically ill patients, often includes central venous catheter-associated thrombosis. PE is the most serious manifestation of VTE and remains one of the leading causes of unexpected deaths in hospitalized patients. Although critically ill medical patients are thought to be at a higher risk for VTE, this population is heterogeneous and underinvestigated. This article reviews particular aspects of the epidemiology, risk factors, prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of VTE in critically ill patients.