Archives of orthopaedic and trauma surgery
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Arch Orthop Trauma Surg · Jun 2015
Review Meta AnalysisRisk factors for venous thromboembolism after total hip and total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis.
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication after total hip arthroplasty (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and may be the cause for a secondary PE and associated morbidity/mortality. We performed a systematic literature review of risk factors and risk reduction of VTE after THA or TKA. ⋯ This study highlighted the role of nine significant risk factors in the development of VTE after THA or TKA. Among all risk factors, history of VTE seems the one main indication for more potent anticoagulation. All other risk factors need to be considered and discussed with patients individually and balanced against the risk of bleeding and infection. Individual patient risk assessment, rather than a "blanket policy", is considered the best management strategy before deciding on the type of chemical prophylaxis.