Thromboembolism following total hip replacement

Total hip replacement is an operation that is prone to thromboembolic complications, with potentially life-threatening consequences. However, the risk has declined substantially in the past three decades, reflecting advances in the understanding of the pathophysiology of thromboembolism and perioperative prophylaxis. The old concept of deciding thromboembolic prophylaxis after the completion of surgery is obsolete. In this review, we will concentrate on the main preventive measures that the medical and surgical team should implement prior to, during, and immediately after surgery.