[Low-molecular-weight heparin for preventing deep-vein thrombosis after total joint arthroplasty].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) in preventing deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) after total hip and knee replacement (THR, TKR). METHODS: From November 1997 to March 1999, we performed total joint replacement for 47 control patients (34 knees, 28 hips) and for 31 patients (19 knees, 17 hips) who had been given low-molecular-weight heparin for preventing deep-vein thrombosis. All patients received venography of the operated limbs after operation. RESULTS: DVT occurred in 19.4% of the LMWH patients (26.3% in TKR, 11.8% in THR) and the reduction was significant (P < 0.05) compared to the control group (48.4%, 55.9%, 39.3% respectively). The incidence of proximal DVT was also reduced significantly (P < 0.05) from 19.4% of the control group to 2.8% of the LMWH group. CONCLUSION: Low-molecular-weight heparin can significantly reduce the incidence of deep-vein thrombosis after total joint replacement.