Role of Early Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin Prophylaxis in the Surgical Treatment of Degenerative Spinal Diseases in the Elderly Patients

Abstract

Study Design: Retrospective review. Summary of Background Data: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) are potential complications following major orthopaedic surgical procedures. Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is the disease process underlying DVT and PE. Pharmacological options can be use low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH). Objective: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the hemorrhage risk when LMWH is started after 24 hours from surgery and to assess venous thromboembolism and pulmonary embolism risk in patients undergoing early prophylaxis after spine surgery. Methods: A consecutive cohort of 100 patients undergoing spinal surgery. Diagnosis was multilevel lumbar spinal stenosis in 46 cases and, degenerative thoracolumbar kypho-scoliosis in 54 cases. Starting on the first postoperative day, patients were routinely administered daily prophylactic enoxaparin at 8 pm (40 mg). Analysis was performed to identify risk factors of VTE among five independent variables (age, sex, obesity defined as body mass index > 30 kg/m 2 , smoking, duration of surgery), with statistical significance defined as P < 0.05. Results: No deaths in this 100 patient cohort; 2 patients developed symptomatic pulmonary embolism during the first three postoperative days and 1 patient had thromboembolic complications, with acute deep venous thrombosis. Only one statistically significant predictor of acute VTE (duration of surgery, P < 0.05). Conclusion: LMWH prophylaxis seems to carry a very low hemorrhage risk and low rate of PE and DVT when started 24 hours after spine surgery. Prophylaxis with LMWH should be considered in all patients underwent major spinal surgery particularly when VTE risk factors are present.