[Modern Approach to the Use of Aspirin in Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism Following Total Hip Arthroplasty or Total Knee Arthroplasty. A Retrospective Trial].

Abstract

Purpose of the study: Given the risk of venous thromboembolism (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) after large joint replacement, the role of thromboprophylaxis is crucial. This retrospective study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of aspirin as thromboprophylaxis in patients undergoing TKA or THA.

Material and methods: In this retrospective review of a database of patients who underwent total hip and total knee replacements between 2021 and 2023, we divided patients into two groups: those with no anticoagulation therapy before surgery and those on chronic anticoagulant use prior to surgery. The primary endpoint was the number of patients with complications after aspirin use in the postoperative period. We collected patient demographic information, history of anticoagulant use, postoperative anticoagulant usage, comorbidities, type of surgery, reactions to anticoagulants, complications related to thromboembolism, length of hospital stay, and hospital readmissions.

Results: For patients who underwent elective THA or TKA, no significant difference in overall VTE or PE rates was detected when comparing aspirin with other anticoagulants. No mortality events were reported. However, there were differences in bleeding event rates between the aspirin group and other anticoagulant groups.

Conclusions: Proper patient selection and early postoperative mobilization support the use of aspirin as a thromboprophylaxis therapy. The results of this study confirm that aspirin is a safe alternative to other anticoagulants in the postoperative management of THA and TKA.