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Evaulation of Thromboembolic Disease Using the VenaFlow Mechanical Compression Device in Orthopedic Surgery Trauma Patients

Source:
Westrich GH, Jhon P, Helfet DL: New York Presbyterian Hospital, NYC. NY, 2000

Summary:
Three hundred trauma or lower extremity injury patients were prospectively studied to evaluate the efficacy of the VenaFlow pneumatic compression device for the prevention of deep venous thrombosis (DVT). VenaFlow was applied immediately following surgery to both lower extremities. Patients also received chemical prophylaxis (either warfarin or aspirin). On post-operative day 4-7, patients were examined for presence of DVT by non-invasive color duplex imaging. Results were compared to a matched historical control group (warfarin or aspirin only) at same institution. Overall DVT rate with VenaFlow was 2.7% (compared with 12.5% for control). VenaFlow plus aspirin showed a 3.2% rate (17.0% control - aspirin only). VenaFlow plus warfarin resulted in a 2.1% DVT rate (8.0% control - warfarin only). No clinical PE were noted.