Mind the clot: Predictors of pulmonary embolism after total knee arthroplasty- An analysis of 150,119 cases

This study leveraged the robust, multicenter ACS NSQIP database to evaluate risk factors associated with the development of pulmonary embolism (PE) following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Our findings demonstrate that advanced age, elevated body mass index (BMI), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), preoperative thrombocytosis or thrombocytopenia, congestive heart failure (CHF), and prolonged operative time are independently associated with increased odds of postoperative PE. These results underscore the importance of comprehensive preoperative risk stratification and individualized perioperative management strategies aimed at minimizing thromboembolic complications in this patient population.