D-dimer levels in diagnosis of DVT after total hip and knee replacement

Background: The aim of study was clinical evaluation of D-dimers level in diagnosis of DVT after joints replacement. Material and methods: There were reviewed series of 80 patients who had performed total hip or knee replacement or revisions after THR. All patients were manifold performed laboratory tests of D-dimers level in serum compared with physical examination and two-dimensional ultrasonography, completed by Doppler. DVT was diagnosed only in case of positive result of ultrasonography. Results: All positive results of ultrasonography were confirmed by increase of D-dimer levels. In 49% increased D-dimers levels we did not obtain ultrasonographic confirmation. Conclusions: Lack of D-dimer level increase means no DVT. D-dimer level increase doesn’t mean deep vein thrombosis. D-dimer level in serum is a screening test in diagnosing DVT after lower limb joints replacement. It should be confirmed by veins ultrasonography or venography.