Caprini VTE Risk Score
Assess venous thromboembolism risk in surgical patients. Guides VTE prophylaxis decisions based on cumulative risk factors.
Risk Factors
Check all that apply:
Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for clinical judgment.
About This Tool
What Is the Caprini Score?
The Caprini Risk Assessment Model (RAM) is a validated tool for individual VTE risk stratification in surgical patients. Developed by Dr. Joseph Caprini, it assigns weighted points to over 35 risk factors spanning patient demographics, medical history, surgical characteristics, and thrombophilia states. The cumulative score determines VTE risk category and guides prophylaxis recommendations.
Risk Stratification
Patients are classified into four risk categories: very low (0 points, ~0.5% VTE risk), low (1–2 points, ~1.5%), moderate (3–4 points, ~3.0%), and high (≥ 5 points, ~6.0% without prophylaxis). This risk-adapted approach ensures appropriate prophylaxis intensity while minimizing unnecessary bleeding risk in low-risk patients.
🔑 Clinical Pearls
- Most hospitalized surgical patients score ≥ 3 — pharmacologic prophylaxis is appropriate for the majority.
- Age-related points are exclusive: pick only one age category (41–60, 61–74, or ≥ 75).
- For cancer surgery, consider extended prophylaxis (28 days) with LMWH per ASCO guidelines.
- The Caprini score has been validated with > 10,000 patients across multiple surgical specialties.
Key References
- Caprini JA. Thrombosis risk assessment as a guide to quality patient care. Dis Mon. 2005;51(2-3):70-78.
- Gould MK, et al. Prevention of VTE in nonorthopedic surgical patients: ACCP Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines. Chest. 2012;141(2 Suppl):e227S-e277S.
Formula last verified: February 2026