[Low molecular weight heparin as venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in hospitalized medical patients].

In this study we reviewed the literature for meta-analyses investigating the effect and risk associated with low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) as venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis in hospitalized medical patients. Furthermore, we identified reputable clinical practice guidelines for VTE prophylaxis in hospitalized medical patients. We included six meta-analyses and two guidelines. Meta-analyses showed varying results of LMWH as VTE prophylaxis. Both guidelines recommend pharmacological VTE prophylaxis for selected hospitalized medical patients.