Timely Anticoagulant Thromboprophylaxis is Safe and Effective in the Care of Patients Suffering Traumatic Brain Injury

Despite the high prevalence and associated morbidity of Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) development, thromboprophylaxis in the neurosurgical setting remains a source of contention due to concerns of iatrogenic haemorrhage progression associated with anticoagulant thromboprophylaxis. Opinions of ideal time to initiate chemical prophylaxis for VTE within the neurosurgical community vary between clinicians. It is nevertheless rarely disputed that timely and appropriate prophylaxis of VTE reduces morbidity. This review aims to determine the safety and efficacy of chemical VTE prophylaxis within the neurosurgical setting. The consequences of VTE can be devastating and patients with neurotrauma are amongst those at greatest risk. With this in mind, the neuroscience nurse must be meticulously conscientious for the prevention of VTE in the neurosurgical setting. The neurosurgical nurse has a close affiliation to the patient, is often the first to observe the clinical signs and symptoms associated with VTE, is responsible for implementing prevention strategies and assisting with treatment for those who unfortunately develop a Deep Vein Thrombosis or Pulmonary Embolism (PE).