Which of the following is the selected method for the prevention of venous thromboembolism in a 38-year-old male undergoing an inguinal hernia repair?

• A. Elastic stockings
• B. Early ambulation
• C. Intermittent pneumatic compression
• D. Low-molecular weight heparin

Answer: (B)

Reducing venous stasis after surgery is the main idea behind preventing venous thromboembolism in this setting. A healthy 38-year-old man having a relatively minor, outpatient procedure like an inguinal hernia repair has a low baseline risk for VTE. In such low-risk cases, the simplest and most effective prevention is getting patients moving as soon as feasible after surgery. Early ambulation helps activate the calf muscle pump, promoting venous return from the legs and decreasing the likelihood of clot formation without adding bleeding risk or medication costs.

Mechanical methods like elastic stockings or intermittent pneumatic compression can provide additional protection, especially if ambulation is delayed or there are contraindications to movement, but they are not the primary strategy when a patient is able to walk soon after surgery. Pharmacologic prophylaxis with low-molecular-weight heparin lowers thrombotic risk through anticoagulation but is generally reserved for higher-risk individuals; in a healthy young patient undergoing a simple procedure, the potential benefits do not outweigh the risks and costs.

So, encouraging early ambulation aligns best with the patient’s risk profile and the nature of the procedure.