Summary of best available evidence on pharmacological prophylaxis for pregnancy-associated venous thromboembolism

Objective To search, analyze, and summarize the best available evidence on pharmacological prophylaxis for pregnancy-associated venous thromboembolism (PA-VTE).

Methods Utilizing evidence-based medicine methodologies, a computerized search was conducted for all evidence pertaining to pharmacological prophylaxis of PA-VTE, including guidelines, expert consensus, systematic reviews, clinical decisions, evidence summaries, and recommended practices. The time for the search ranged from the establishment of relevant databases up to December 13, 2024. Two researchers independently assessed the quality of the included literature. In cases of disagreement, a third researcher was consulted to reach a consensus on the final evaluation.

Results A total of 20 articles were included, comprising 6 guidelines, 7 systematic reviews, 2 clinical decisions, 3 expert consensus documents, and 2 evidence summaries. From seven aspects including drug types, drug selection, drug contraindications, timing of prophylactic medication, prophylactic strategies and implementation plans, medication precautions, and health education, 28 pieces of evidence were summarized.

Conclusion This study has compiled the best available evidence on pharmacological prophylaxis for PA-VTE, which can guide healthcare professionals inproviding individualized pharmacological prophylaxis strategies for pregnant women, thereby reducing the incidence of venous thromboembolism and improving pregnancy outcomes.