%0 Journal Article %A Michael Gross %A David R. Anderson %A Seema Nagpal %A Bernie O’Brien %T Venous thromboembolism prophylaxis after total hip or knee arthroplasty: a survey of Canadian orthopedic surgeons %D 1999 %J Canadian Journal of Surgery %P 457-461 %V 42 %N 6 %X Objective: To determine the pharmacologic and physical modalities used by orthopedic surgeons in Canada to prevent venous thromboembolism (deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism) after total hip or knee arthroplasty.Design: Mail survey sent to all members of the Canadian Orthopaedic Association.Setting: A nation-wide study.Methods: A total of 828 questionnaires, designed to identify the type and frequency of prophylaxis against venous thromboembolism that were used after hip and knee arthroplasty were mailed to orthopedic surgeons.Outcome measures: Demographic data and the frequency and type of thromboprophylaxis.Results: Of the 828 surveys mailed 445 (54%) were returned, and 397 were included in this analysis. Of the respondents, 97% used prophylaxis routinely for patients who undergo total hip or knee arthroplasty. Three of the 397 (0.8%) did not use any method of prophylaxis. Warfarin was the most common agent used (46%), followed by low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) (36%). Combination therapy with both mechanical and pharmacologic methods were used in 39% of patients. Objective screening tests were not frequently performed before discharge. Extended prophylaxis beyond the duration of hospitalization was used by 36% of physicians.Conclusion: Prophylaxis for venous thromboembolism with warfarin or LMWH has become standard care after total hip or knee arthroplasty in Canada. %U https://www.canjsurg.ca/content/cjs/42/6/457.full.pdf