Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism in Patients Undergoing Total Hip Arthroplasty: The Promise of New Oral Anticoagulants

Although effective agents exist for thromboprophylaxis to decrease risk of venous thromboembolism, particularly following major orthopaedic surgery, including total hip arthroplasty, these agents are underused, and thromboembolic events continue to occur in patients undergoing these surgical procedures. One reason for suboptimal treatment may be concern about bleeding; another may be dissatisfaction with currently available prophylactic agents. New oral anticoagulants appear to be equally efficacious and will provide easier administration and management. They hold promise for improving utilization of thromboprophylaxis and consequently for reducing the incidence of venous thromboembolism. (Journal of Surgical Orthopaedic Advances 20(4):215–219, 2011)