New study identifies risk factors for the complications of a dangerous blood clot 9/16/2010 Rosemont, IL

Risk factors for venous thromboembolism after total hip replacement (THR) surgery were identified in a new study published in the September 2010 issue of The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (JBJS). While the rate of thromboembolism has been significantly reduced through medication, understanding the risk factors could further reduce the likelihood of patients developing this potentially fatal complication.

Two of the most common manifestations of a thromboembolism include:

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), in which the blood clot forms in a deep vein, commonly in the thigh or calf

• Pulmonary embolism (PE), in which the blood clot breaks free and travels through the veins.

Before any orthopaedic surgery, patients should provide their orthopaedic surgeon with a complete, detailed medical history so risk factors can be identified. Patients also should follow the surgeon’s pre- and post-surgical instructions and take all medication prescribed.

JBJS

About the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)