Addressing the Gap in VTE Prophylaxis in Paediatric Orthopaedics

Abstract

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) remains a rare yet potentially life-threatening complication in paediatric patients. While adult medicine emphasizes mandatory VTE risk assessment and thromboprophylaxis protocols, a comparable framework is notably absent in paediatric practice in Ireland. Our recent study, conducted at Children’s Health Ireland, aimed to evaluate current familiarity and prescribing comfort regarding VTE prophylaxis among consultants and non consultant hospital doctors (NCHDs) working in paediatric orthopaedics.

We surveyed 21 clinicians, including consultants, registrars, senior house officers and fellows, to assess their experience, knowledge, and confidence in prescribing VTE prophylaxis. Although 71% had previously managed a paediatric patient requiring VTE prophylaxis, only 10% felt comfortable prescribing it independently. This discrepancy highlights a significant gap between clinical necessity and practitioner readiness to prescribe.