American Society of Hematology, ABHH, ACHO, Grupo CAHT, Grupo CLAHT, SAH, SBHH, SHU, SOCHIHEM, SOMETH, Sociedad Panameña de Hematología, Sociedad Peruana de Hematología, and SVH 2022 guidelines for prevention of venous thromboembolism in surgical and medical patients and long-distance travelers in Latin America

Abstract

Background: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common disease in Latin American settings. Implementation of international guidelines in Latin American settings requires additional considerations. Objective: To provide evidence-based guidelines about VTE prevention for Latin American patients, clinicians, and decision makers. Methods: We used the GRADE ADOLOPMENT method to adapt recommendations from two American Society of Hematology (ASH) VTE guidelines (Prevention of VTE in Surgical Patients and Prophylaxis for Medical Patients). ASH and 12 local hematology societies formed a guideline panel composed of medical professionals from 10 countries in Latin America. Panelists prioritized 20 questions relevant to the Latin American context. A knowledge synthesis team updated evidence reviews of health effects conducted for the original ASH guidelines and summarized information about factors specific to the Latin American context, i.e., values and preferences, resources, accessibility, feasibility, and impact on health equity. Results: The panel agreed on 21 recommendations. In comparison with the original guideline, 6 recommendations changed direction and 4 changed strength. Conclusions: This guideline ADOLOPMENT project highlighted the importance of contextualization of recommendations in other settings, based on differences in values, resources, feasibility, and health equity impact.