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Updated: Aug 10, 2026
10:26
A Multicenter MRI Protocol for the Evaluation and Quantification of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Published on: June 2, 2015
Thromboembolism after foot and ankle surgery. A multicenter study
M S Mizel1, H T Temple, J D Michelson
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA.
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|April 29, 1998
Summary
Thromboembolic disease is a rare complication after foot and ankle surgery. Routine prophylaxis is likely unnecessary, as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism rates are low.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Vascular Surgery
- Thromboembolic Disease
Background:
- Thromboembolic disease is a known risk after hip and knee surgery.
- The incidence of thromboembolic events after foot and ankle surgery is not well-documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of clinically evident thromboembolic disease after foot and ankle surgery.
- To identify potential risk factors associated with these events.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, multicenter study involving 2733 patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery.
- Evaluation of preoperative risk factors and postoperative thromboembolic events.
Main Results:
- Six clinically significant thromboembolic events occurred, including four nonfatal pulmonary emboli.
- The incidence of deep vein thrombosis was 0.22% (6/2733).
- The incidence of nonfatal pulmonary embolism was 0.15% (4/2733).
- Non-weightbearing status and postoperative immobilization correlated with increased deep vein thrombosis risk.
Conclusions:
- The incidence of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism after foot and ankle surgery is low.
- Routine thromboembolic disease prophylaxis is likely not warranted for patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery.
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