Flowtron foot-pumps for prevention of venous thromboembolism in total hip and knee replacement.

Introduction: Mechanical prophylaxis with foot-pumps provides an interesting alternative to chemical agents in the prevention of venous thomboembolism following major orthopaedic surgery procedures. The aim of this prospective study was to assess efficacy and safety of the Flowtron(®) foot-pumps system following total hip and knee replacement. The foot pumps were used as main tool for prevention of thromboembolic events, in most cases in association with a variety of chemicals.

Methods: The primary endpoint of the study was to assess the incidence of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism after total hip and knee replacement. The secondary endpoints included postoperative bleeding, swelling, bruising and wound ooze.

Results: 424 consecutive patients were included in the study. Symptomatic deep vein thrombosis was detected in 7 patients (1.6%). All symptomatic deep vein thromboses were detected after discharge before the six week follow-up clinic. Five non-fatal pulmonary embolisms occurred (1.2%). Only one patient presented a major wound bleeding (0.2%). The mean difference of swelling of thigh pre-versus postoperatively was only 22.8 mm.

Discussion: In conclusion, thromboembolism prophylaxis after total hip and knee replacement using Flowtron(®) foot-pumps as main prevention tool of an individualised protocol appears effective and safe. This is the first clinical report related to this popular brand of foot pumps.