Caprini Score for VTE Risk (2005)
Predicts risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in surgical patients. Guides thromboprophylaxis decisions. Score 0–19+.
How to use & interpret
The Caprini score risk-stratifies venous thromboembolism in surgical patients to guide the type and duration of thromboprophylaxis. It sums numerous weighted risk factors (age, surgery type and duration, prior VTE, thrombophilia, malignancy, immobility, and more).
Higher totals move patients into higher risk categories, supporting mechanical and/or pharmacological prophylaxis and, for the highest-risk groups, extended-duration prophylaxis. Combine with the procedure-specific bleeding risk.
Score interpretation
Very low VTE risk. No pharmacological prophylaxis required.
→ Early ambulation. No pharmacological prophylaxis needed.
Low VTE risk.
→ Mechanical prophylaxis (TED stockings/pneumatic compression). Pharmacological prophylaxis generally not required.
Moderate VTE risk.
→ Pharmacological prophylaxis (LMWH) + mechanical compression recommended. Review patient-specific bleeding risk.
High VTE risk.
→ LMWH prophylaxis strongly recommended unless contraindicated. Extended prophylaxis (28–35 days) for major orthopaedic surgery. Consider fondaparinux/NOAC. Sequential compression devices.
Interpretation bands for the Caprini VTE. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
Frequently asked questions
Does a high Caprini score mandate anticoagulant prophylaxis?
It indicates higher VTE risk and supports prophylaxis, but the bleeding risk of the specific operation and patient must be weighed alongside it.
References
- Caprini JA. Thrombosis risk assessment as a guide to quality patient care. Dis Mon. 2005;51(2-3):70-78.
- Pannucci CJ et al. Validation of the Caprini Risk Assessment Model in plastic and reconstructive surgery patients. J Am Coll Surg. 2011;212(1):105-112.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Cefuroxime · Second-Generation Cephalosporin — Respiratory / Surgical Prophylaxis
- Cefazolin · First-Generation Cephalosporin (Surgical Prophylaxis)
- Palivizumab · RSV Prophylaxis — Monthly Monoclonal Antibody (High-Risk Infants)
- Cefazolin (Surgical Prophylaxis) · 1st Generation Cephalosporin (Surgical Antibiotic Prophylaxis)
- Clindamycin (Surgical Prophylaxis — Penicillin Allergy) · Antibiotic (Lincosamide) — Surgical Prophylaxis
- Teicoplanin (Surgical Prophylaxis/MRSA) · Glycopeptide Antibiotic
- Acute Heart Failure · ESC 2021 Heart Failure Guidelines; NICE NG106
- NSTEMI / Unstable Angina · ESC 2020 NSTEMI Guidelines; NICE NG185
- New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation · ESC 2020 AF Guidelines; NICE NG196
- Hypertensive Emergency · ESC/ESH 2018 Hypertension Guidelines; NICE NG136
- Bradycardia Management · Resuscitation Council UK ABCDE; ESC 2021 Pacing Guidelines
- Ventricular Tachycardia / Fibrillation · Resuscitation Council UK ACLS; ESC 2022 Ventricular Arrhythmia Guidelines
Featured in these MRCEM clinical pathways
The Caprini VTE is covered in detail — with RCEM/NICE evidence base, indications and pitfalls — in the following exam-focused pathways on our sister siteReviseMRCEM.
MRCEM Primary / Intermediate / OSCE candidates: each pathway includes exam-style questions, RCEM/NICE citations, and FAQ summaries.
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.