My PS suggested I take Lovenox due to a past DVT in my leg and my MTHFR gene. I have read a few posts on here about Arixtra and wanted to know if that is a better alternative? My PS says the only real complication with adding Lovenox is addtional bruising and he does a no drain TT. Does that sound correct or is he minimalizing it?
March 25, 2013
Answer: Lovenox vs. Arixtra
Both medications are effective at reducing the risk of DVT in high risk patients in combination with mechanical prophylaxis such as compression stockings and early ambulation. Both do, however, increase the risk of post-operative bleeding complications, even life-threatening bleeding. One advantage to arixtra is that it is more effective when the first dose is given after surgery, allowing your surgeon to assess the surgical site post-operatively and make the decision to use or not use anticoagulation based on your exam, thus avoiding a major bleeding episode, but also increasing your risk of a clot. Your enzyme deficiency and history of prior DVT do make you a high risk for DVT/PE, so you should carefully consider any elective surgeries.
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March 25, 2013
Answer: Lovenox vs. Arixtra
Both medications are effective at reducing the risk of DVT in high risk patients in combination with mechanical prophylaxis such as compression stockings and early ambulation. Both do, however, increase the risk of post-operative bleeding complications, even life-threatening bleeding. One advantage to arixtra is that it is more effective when the first dose is given after surgery, allowing your surgeon to assess the surgical site post-operatively and make the decision to use or not use anticoagulation based on your exam, thus avoiding a major bleeding episode, but also increasing your risk of a clot. Your enzyme deficiency and history of prior DVT do make you a high risk for DVT/PE, so you should carefully consider any elective surgeries.
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March 24, 2013
Answer: Consider consultation
Given your history I would recommend a consultation with a hematologist prior to having your surgery to get best advise on how long and at what dose you need to take anticlotting medication. You are certainly at increased risk and I would not operate on you with this history without hematology assistance in management. Tummy tucks are the #1 cause of DVT in plastic surgery.
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March 24, 2013
Answer: Consider consultation
Given your history I would recommend a consultation with a hematologist prior to having your surgery to get best advise on how long and at what dose you need to take anticlotting medication. You are certainly at increased risk and I would not operate on you with this history without hematology assistance in management. Tummy tucks are the #1 cause of DVT in plastic surgery.
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