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Thromboembolic disease after foot and ankle surgery
Sarah S Hanslow1, Les Grujic, Henry K Slater
1Nepean Hospital, Orthopaedics, Grose Wold, Sydney, NSW 2753, Australia. mmayfield@ozemail.com.au
Foot & Ankle International
|October 14, 2006
Summary
Thromboembolic disease after foot and ankle surgery occurs at a 4% rate. Risk factors include rheumatoid arthritis, air travel, and prior clots, suggesting thromboprophylaxis may be needed for some patients.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Vascular Medicine
- Thromboembolic Disease
Background:
- Thromboembolic disease complications after major orthopaedic surgery are well-documented.
- Previous studies suggest a low incidence of thromboembolic disease after foot and ankle surgery, questioning the need for routine thromboprophylaxis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of thromboembolic disease following foot and ankle surgery.
- To identify risk factors associated with postoperative thromboembolic disease.
- To evaluate the necessity of routine thromboprophylaxis in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study analyzing data from 602 patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery.
- Data collected from the practices of two specialized foot and ankle surgeons.
Main Results:
- A 4% incidence of postoperative thromboembolic complications was observed (24 patients).
- Identified risk factors included rheumatoid arthritis, recent air travel, history of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, and limb immobilization.
Conclusions:
- The incidence of thromboembolic disease post-foot and ankle surgery may be higher than previously reported, especially in patients with specific risk factors.
- Further prospective randomized clinical trials are required to accurately establish incidence rates and define appropriate indications for thromboprophylaxis.
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