Low molecular weight heparin does not prevent VTE after knee arthroscopy, studies show

Prophylactic treatment with low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) does not prevent symptomatic venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients who undergo knee arthroscopy or have a leg immobilised in plaster, two randomised studies have shown.1

Patients who have undergone arthroscopic knee surgery and those who have their lower leg in plaster are at increased risk of VTE. Thromboprophylaxis is well established in other types of orthopaedic procedures, including hip and knee replacement surgery, because it reduces the risk of thrombosis while only …