Patients undergoing elective hip replacement and surgery for hip fracture are at increased risk of venous thromboembolic disease, a potentially preventable cause of mortality and morbidity. Although the association between these operations and venous thromboembolism has been recognized many years ago, there is still great variability in the clinical practices with respect to prophylaxis. This article aims to clarify the incidence and risk factors for deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism after hip operations, and give evidence-based recommendations for prophylaxis adopted from the Seventh American College of Chest Physicians Conference (ACCP).

        Key words: venous thromboembolic disease, prophylaxis, proximal femoral surgery.