From the Research
Patients should remain on aspirin 325 mg for 4-6 weeks following orthopedic surgery, as this duration has been shown to minimize the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) without significant increases in bleeding risk, as supported by the most recent study 1. The exact duration of aspirin therapy may vary depending on the specific procedure and individual risk factors. Key factors to consider when determining the duration of aspirin therapy include:
- The type of orthopedic surgery performed
- The patient's individual risk factors for VTE and bleeding
- The presence of any contraindications to aspirin therapy, such as gastrointestinal bleeding or aspirin allergy Aspirin works by inhibiting platelet aggregation, thereby reducing the risk of VTE, which is a common complication after orthopedic surgeries due to immobility and tissue trauma. Patients should be monitored for signs of bleeding, including easy bruising, blood in stool, or prolonged bleeding from cuts. Those with a history of gastrointestinal bleeding, aspirin allergy, or who are taking other anticoagulants may require alternative VTE prophylaxis. It's essential to complete the full prescribed course even if feeling well, as the risk of clot formation extends beyond the immediate recovery period, as noted in previous studies 2, 3, 4, 5. However, the most recent and highest-quality study 1 provides the strongest evidence for the recommended duration of aspirin therapy.