Prevention of Pulmonary Embolism Prevention of acute venous thromboembolism Prevention of pulmonary embolism means prevention of deep venous thrombosis (DVT); the need depends on the patient's risks, including Type and duration of any surgery Comorbid conditions, including cancer and hypercoagulable disorders Presence of a central venous catheter Prior history of DVT or PE Bedbound patients and patients undergoing surgical, especially orthopedic, procedures benefit, and most of these patients can be identified before a thrombus forms (see table Risk Assessment for Thrombosis).