The effect of anticoagulation on the restoration of range of motion after total knee arthroplasty: enoxaparin versus aspirin

Anticoagulation used for thromboembolic prophylaxis following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) could interfere with movement. This study compares the effect of 2 anticoagulants, enoxaparin and aspirin, on restoration of range of motion (ROM) after TKA. Two groups of 75 consecutive patients, matched for age, arthritic severity, and preoperative ROM, underwent TKA. Flexion and extension milestone measures were recorded daily. Results show a highly statistically significant difference (P<.001) between the 2 groups when comparing the days on which these milestones were achieved. Group 1 (enoxaparin) reached 90 degrees, 100 degrees and 110 degrees of flexion in 8.4, 10.4, and 12.4 days, respectively. Group 2 (aspirin) reached the same goals in 6.8, 8.5, and 10.6 days, respectively. At 15 months after surgery, no statistically significant difference in flexion was seen between the groups (122 degrees vs 121 degrees ). Enoxaparin delayed the return of early but not long-term flexion after TKA.