Low-Dose Warfarin Coupled With Lower Leg Compression Is Effective Prophylaxis Against Thromboembolic Disease After Hip Arthroplasty

Abstract

Consecutive patients having elective total hip arthroplasty were prescribed 1 mg of warfarin for 7 days preceding surgery, variable doses while in hospital (target international normalized ratio, 1.5-2.0), and discharged to rehabilitation center or home taking 1 mg daily until 4-week to 6-week follow-up visit. Lower leg pneumatic compression was used postoperatively and elastic compression stockings after discharge. Hospital and clinic charts plus auxiliary sources were reviewed for evidence of thromboembolic diseases (TED). Of 1003 consecutive patients studied, 3 (0.3%, 95% CI 0.0-0.6%) had symptomatic TED, including 2 with deep venous thrombosis and 1 with nonfatal pulmonary embolus. Follow-up rate was 99.1%. Complications from warfarin were minimal. Very–low-dose warfarin coupled with lower leg compression is effective prophylaxis against TED after elective hip arthroplasty when prescribed as described.