Summary
Pooled results from 13 randomized controlled trials showed a significant reduction
in overall risk of DVT with use of heparin compared with no heparin in hip fracture
patients. However, inadequate reporting of pulmonary embolism, death and other complications,
along with inconsistent diagnostic methods across studies prevents meaningful conclusions
from being drawn in regards to other outcomes. Better quality trials with consistent
follow-up and event monitoring are needed in order to examine the effect heparin may
have on clinically significant outcomes following hip fracture surgery.
