Hospital thromboprophylaxy in country with low income: Case of the university hospital center of Kamenge, Bujumbura, Burundi

Abstract

Background: Venous thromboembolic disease is a real public health problem worldwide because of its high incidence and frequent fatal complications. In a country with limited resources, there is a lack of technical and material resources with low purchasing power. Aim: To determine the epidemiological and clinical aspects of venous thromboembolic disease in Burundian hospitals among patients undergoing prophylaxis. Patients and Methods: This was a prospective descriptive study conducted at kamenge university hospital from September 2019 to December 2019. Was included any patient hospitalized in the internal medicine, surgery and gyneco-obstetrics departments. Results: A total of 352 patients had been hospitalized in the three departments and 66 of them had benefited from thromboprophylaxis, i.e. 18.7% of cases. Among the factors of thrombosis, bed rest for more than 3 days predominated with 96% of cases. Enoxaparin topped the list of low molecular weight heparins prescribed. No physical means were used as thromboprophylaxis. Conclusion: Thromboprophylaxis is underused in our hospitals. In order to reduce the negative impact of thromboembolic disease, health personnel must be trained in its management and the population must be made aware of it.