THROMBOPROPHYLAXIS IN HIP-ARTHROPLASTY - NEW FRONTIERS AND FUTURE STRATEGY

Coagulation-related complications are a frequent cause of death follow ing hip replacement surgery. Venographically-proven deep vein thrombos is (DVT) is found in a high frequency. Most cases have no symptoms. Fa tal pulmonary embolism (PE) may develop from subclinical thrombi. In a ddition, arterial thromboses may induce serious cardiovascular events and an unknown number of patients may develop cardiorespiratory insuff iciency, due to non-fatal venous PE, Finally, several patients may dev elop venous insufficiency. Recent prospective double-blind studies hav e shown that the frequency of deep vein thrombosis increased after hos pital discharge in patients undergoing hip replacement surgery. Prolon ged thromboprophylaxis with low-molecular-weight heparin (dalteparin o r enoxaparin) is recommended for at least 5 weeks after the operation.