[Prophylaxis for deep vein thrombosis with low molecular weight heparin following hip and knee surgery].

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of low molecular weight heparin(LMWH) in prophylaxis of postoperative deep vein thrombosis (DVT) following hip and knee surgery.

METHODS

From April 1997 to October 1998, 46 patients undergoing hip and knee orthopedic procedures were randomized into 2 groups for studying. The following eligibility criteria were applied: age over 40 years old, no recently history of venous thromboembolism (over 3 months), normal result of preoperative hemostasis test and normal result of Doppler examination of the lower extremities. One group was control group and the other group received subcutaneously a low molecular weight heparin(Fraxiparine) with anti-factor X, activity of 41 IU/kg.day for three days, then 62 IU/kg.day from the 4th day to 10th day. All patients had venegraphy performed in the operated leg at 4 to 7 days after surgery.

RESULTS

eight patients(34.8%) developed DVT in the control group of 23 patients and 1 patient (4.3%) in the experimental group, also of 23 patients(P < 0.05). Two groups had no any bleeding complications.

CONCLUSION

The low molecular weight heparin is safe and effective in preventing postoperative deep vein thrombosis in patients following hip and knee surgery.