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Thrombosis Journal

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Open Access 01-12-2008 | Original clinical investigation

The value of D-dimer in the detection of early deep-vein thrombosis after total knee arthroplasty in Asian patients: a cohort study

Authors: Chung-Jen Chen, Ching-Jen Wang, Chung-Cheng Huang

Published in: Thrombosis Journal | Issue 1/2008

Abstract

Background and purpose

The relationship of D-dimer and deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to assess the value of D-dimer in the detection of early DVT after TKA.

Methods

The measurements of plasma D-dimer level were obtained preoperatively and at day 7 postoperatively in 78 patients undergoing TKA. Ascending venography was performed in 7 to 10 days after surgery. The plasma D-dimer levels were correlated statistically with the venographic DVT.

Results

Venographic DVT was identified in 40% of patients. High plasma D-dimer level >2.0 μg/ml was found in 68% of patients with DVT and 45% without DVT (P < 0.05). Therefore, high D-dimer level greater than 2.0 μg/ml showed 68% sensitivity, 55% specificity, 60% accuracy, 50% positive predictive rate and 72% negative predictive rate in the detection of early DVT after TKA.

Conclusion

High plasma D-dimer level is a moderately sensitive, but less specific marker in the detection of early of DVT after TKA. Measurement of serum D-dimer alone is not accurate enough to detect DVT after TKA. Venography is recommended in patients with elevated D-dimer and clinically suspected but asymptomatic DVT after TKA.

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Title: The value of D-dimer in the detection of early deep-vein thrombosis after total knee arthroplasty in Asian patients: a cohort study
Authors: Chung-Jen Chen
Ching-Jen Wang
Chung-Cheng Huang
Publication date: 01-12-2008
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Thrombosis Journal / Issue 1/2008
Electronic ISSN: 1477-9560
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/1477-9560-6-5

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Results

Conclusion

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