Aspirin for Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis in Hip Fracture, Total Knee, and Hip Arthroplasty.

Venous thromboembolism is a complication of major orthopedic surgeries such as hip fracture repair, total knee arthroplasty, and total hip arthroplasty. Prophylaxis against venous thromboembolism reduces the risk of pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis associated with these procedures. Aspirin is widely prescribed for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in major orthopedic surgery. We review the epidemiology of hip fracture, total knee arthroplasty, and total hip arthroplasty, and describe aspirin's mechanisms of action, efficacy, and safety.