Rivaroxaban versus low molecular weight heparin to prevent deep venous thrombosis following total hip arthroplasty:Comparative study

Objective To observe and compare the clinical effects and security of low molecular weight heparin and rivaroxaban against deep venous thrombosis(DVT) after total knee arthroplasty(THA). Methods Totally 200 THA patients to be received THA from May 2009 to February 2011 were randomized into two groups: rivaroxaban group(100 cases) and low molecular weight heparin group(100 cases). Rivaroxaban group was treated with rivaroxaban 10 mg,once a day for 14 days,6-8 h before operation,and heparin group was injected with heparin,every day for 10 days after operation. After 14 days,color ultrasonography on vein of double lower extremities was used to find out any deep vein thrombosis,and the pulmonary embolism or serious bleeding. Results The incidence rate of DVT in the rivaroxaban group was obviously lower than in the heparin group(5% vs 9%,P0.05). No pulmonary embolism or serious bleeding occurred. Conclusion Rivaroxaban to prevent lower extremities DVT in patients after knee arthroplasty is better than heparin,both are safe.