The new guidelines advise against routine screenings of patients after surgery using ultrasound imaging and suggest additional preventative measures. The preventative measures include using mechanical compression devices for improved blood flow and drug therapy with anticoagulants and aspirin.
Before hip or knee replacement, the workgroup recommends patients stop taking antiplatelet medications, discuss prior deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism with physicians and that surgeons perform the procedure under regional anesthesia.
After the procedure, the workgroup recommended patients walk as soon as possible to prevent blood clots.
Related Articles on Orthopedic Surgery:
7 Studies on Reducing Spine Surgery Complications
Arthroscopy Association to Conduct Complications Study
AANS: 8% of Adult Spinal Surgeries Result in Major Complications
a
AAOS Updates Guidelines on Preventing Blood Clots After Joint Replacement
Written by Laura Miller | September 29, 2011
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons board of directors has updated guidelines and recommendations on reducing blood clots after hip or knee replacement surgery, according to an AAOS news release.
© Copyright ASC COMMUNICATIONS 2011. Interested in LINKING to or REPRINTING this content? View our policies here.