Routine use of adjusted low-dose warfarin to prevent venous thromboembolism after total hip replacement.

268 patients (134 men and 134 women) between the ages of 40 and 85 years (average 61 years) undergoing total hip replacement (170 primary and 98 revisional). 34 patients (13%) had a history of thromboembolic disease or venous stasis.

Adjusted low-dose warfarin orally before and after operation for 12 weeks. Initial dose 10 mg night before and 5 mg night after operation, then adjusted to keep prothrombin time between 14 and 16 seconds.

Incidence of pulmonary emboli and major bleedinghard clinical