The new guidelines advise against routine screenings of patients after surgery using ultrasound imaging and suggest additional preventative measures. The preventative measures include using mechanical compression devices for improved blood flow and drug therapy with anticoagulants and aspirin.
Before hip or knee replacement, the workgroup recommends patients stop taking antiplatelet medications, discuss prior deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism with physicians and that surgeons perform the procedure under regional anesthesia.
After the procedure, the workgroup recommended patients walk as soon as possible to prevent blood clots.
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