While there may be some degree of hereditary influence on the incidence of VTE, clot formation is generally associated with circumstances that increase blood coagulability, impair blood flow and cause inflammation of the endothelium. Patients who are on the CCU may be at particular risk and may also experience VTE associated with indwelling devices (eg central venous catheter). The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and other authorities have therefore made specific evidence-based recommendations regarding VTE prophylaxis in the CCU population to reduce the risks of VTE formation.4,5
