Cost-benefit analysis of prophylaxis against deep vein thrombosis in surgery.

A cost-benefit analysis was performed based on the incidence of postoperative thromboembolic complications, the cost of prophylaxis, and the cost of treating the complications. It was determined that prophylaxis against thromboembolic complications in both general surgery and total hip replacement, with either standard heparin or low molecular weight heparin, saves lives as well as reduces health care costs.