Efficacy of Aspirin in Preventing Venous Thromboembolism in Total Knee and Hip Joint Replacement.

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a significant complication following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and total hip arthroplasty (THA). Aspirin has gained attention as a cost-effective, safe alternative to traditional anticoagulants like enoxaparin, but comparative data on efficacy and safety remain limited.

METHODS

This randomized controlled trial compared the efficacy of aspirin and enoxaparin in preventing VTE following TKA and THA. A total of 60 patients were recruited, with 30 patients in each group. Prophylactic efficacy was assessed through Doppler ultrasonography preoperatively and at two and four weeks postoperatively. The primary outcome was the incidence of VTE or bleeding events within 90 days.  Results: No cases of symptomatic deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or other thrombotic events were observed in either group during the 90-day follow-up. Additionally, no statistically significant differences were noted between groups for bleeding events, including hematoma or hemarthrosis. Both treatments were well tolerated, with comparable safety profiles. Systemic and gastrointestinal complications were minimal and evenly distributed across groups.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that aspirin and enoxaparin are equally effective in preventing VTE after total knee or hip arthroplasty. Further research is needed to determine the optimal duration and dosage of aspirin for VTE prophylaxis in this setting.