Hydroxychloroquine and postoperative thromboembolism after total hip replacement

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Pharmacology
• Vascular Medicine

Background:

• Thromboembolism is a significant risk following total hip replacement.
• Prophylactic agents are crucial in managing post-operative complications.
• Hydroxychloroquine's potential antithrombotic properties warrant investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of hydroxychloroquine as prophylaxis against thromboembolism after total hip replacement.
• To assess hydroxychloroquine's effects on red blood cell aggregation, platelet aggregation, and blood viscosity.
• To determine the impact of hydroxychloroquine on deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism incidence.

Main Methods:

• Review of evidence on hydroxychloroquine's use in thromboembolism prophylaxis.
• Examination of its effects on hematological parameters like red blood cell aggregation and viscosity.
• Analysis of venographic and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing hip replacement.

Main Results:

• Hydroxychloroquine reduces red blood cell aggregation and thrombus size without increasing bleeding time.
• Variable reductions in platelet aggregation and blood viscosity were observed.
• No significant influence on venographic deep vein thrombosis incidence, but a potential reduction in fatal pulmonary embolism.

Conclusions:

• Hydroxychloroquine demonstrates antithrombotic effects beneficial for hip replacement patients.
• Despite not influencing DVT, it may reduce fatal pulmonary embolism risk.
• It is a safe prophylaxis with no adverse effects on wound healing, remaining a preferred choice.