The Knee
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Comparative Study
Comparison of pharmacologic prophylaxis in prevention of venous thromboembolism following total knee arthroplasty.
Anticoagulants are used following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) to prevent venous thromboembolism (VTE). These drugs reduce VTE risk but may lead to bleeding-related complications. Recently, surgeons have advocated using antiplatelet agents including aspirin (ASA). However, there is no consensus regarding which medication has the optimal risk/benefit profile. The purpose of this study was to compare rates of VTE using different anticoagulants in anticoagulation-naïve patients being discharged home after TKA. ⋯ III.