Sakon M, Ikeda M, Monden M.
[General surgery]
Nippon Rinsho. 2003 Oct;61(10):1780-6. Review. Japanese.

Department of Surgery and Clinical Oncology, Graduate School of
Medicine, Osaka University.
Perioperative prophylaxis for pulmonary embolism (PE) is now an
emerging issue in Japan because its frequency is increasing very
rapidly. Although the optimal prophylaxis should be performed
individually on the basis of clinical evidence, the available data on
the incidence and prophylaxis of PE are limited in Japanese
surgical patients. Both mechanical and pharmacological methods
of prophylaxis have been developed. Intermittent pneumatic
compression (IPC) appears to be effective. The importance of
thromboprophylaxis with anticoagulants including heparin is also
emphasized. A new guideline for PE prophylaxis is expected to be
established based on Japanese clinical evidence.