Rheomacrodex in the prevention of thromboembolic complications following total hip replacement (Hebrew)

In a retrospective study of 50 replacements of the hip joint (low friction arthroplasty) performed during 1972 to 1975, the efficacy of low molecular weight dextran (Rheomacrodex) for the prevention of postoperative thromboembolic complications was assessed. In those not treated prophylactically with Rheomacrodex the incidence of deep vein thrombosis varied from 40-60% and of fatal pulmonary emboli from 2-3%. Treatment with Rheomacrodex significantly reduced the incidence of deep vein thrombosis to only 6% and there were no cases of fatal pulmonary emboli. 500 ml were given at the end of the operation, and 500 ml daily for the first 5-10 days as a slow intravenous drip. In our opinion, Rheomacrodex is effective in the prophylactic treatment of patients undergoing hip surgery, and prevents the occurrence of thrombophlebitis to a great extent.