Background: Although the risk of thromboembolism after total hip arthroplasty continues beyond hospital discharge, the cost-effectiveness of extending prophylaxis beyond hospitalization is unclear. We compared the cost-effectiveness of an extended duration of antithrombotic prophylaxis following total hip arthroplasty, with use of low-molecular-weight heparin or warfarin administered for twenty-eight days beyond hospital discharge, in terms of incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year gained.
Methods: The economic analysis was structured around a decision tree characterizing the consequences of extended prophylaxis choices following total hip arthroplasty.