New AHRQ Evidence Report Compares Risks and Benefits of Blood Clot Prevention Approaches

New AHRQ Evidence Report Compares Risks and Benefits of Blood Clot Prevention Approaches

New AHRQ Evidence Report Compares Risks and Benefits of Blood Clot Prevention Approaches

A new report  from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality compares the effectiveness of venous thromboembolism (VTE) prevention among people getting hip or knee replacements, and among people being treated for hip fractures. Few studies provided direct comparisons between different types of blood thinners and mechanical interventions such as compression stockings or compression pumps. The authors noted the need for additional research to determine the most effective strategy for preventing harmful blood clots after hip or knee replacement and hip fracture surgeries.  AHRQ has previously done other work in this area, including development of a guide to assist health care organizations in reducing preventable blood clots.