Hip fractures

Summary

There is some evidence to suggest that fondaparinux is more effective than enoxaparin in preventing venous thromboembolism (VTE) after hip fracture surgery and is equally safe. In the trials reviewed, symptomatic events were rare, and no difference was seen in the incidence of pulmonary embolism between groups. Extended prophylaxis with fondaparinux for 3 weeks after hip fracture surgery significantly reduced the risk of VTE compared with placebo; however, continued use of fondaparinux was associated with more major bleeding, though the difference did not reach statistical significance.

Strength of evidence > Visual display of the overall strength of evidence.