Research Summary

Preoperative Statin Use Linked to Lower VTE Risk After Total Hip Arthroplasty

Anthony Calabro, MA

Key Highlights

  • Statin users had significantly fewer 90-day postoperative venous thromboembolism events after total hip arthroplasty
  • No significant differences in pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, emergency department visits, or reoperations
  • Statin intensity level did not influence postoperative outcomes

In a propensity-matched cohort study of more than 1100 patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA), preoperative statin therapy was associated with a significantly reduced risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) events in the 90-day postoperative period.

Although modern perioperative protocols have reduced complication rates in total joint arthroplasty, VTE remains a significant concern following THA. Statins, known for their lipid-lowering effects, also exhibit anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic properties. And while these medications may offer protection against thromboembolic events, evidence specific to THA has been limited.

This study retrospectively identified 1154 patients who used statins for at least 4 weeks prior to undergoing primary THA at a large urban academic center between January 2012 and June 2023. Outcomes assessed included 90-day rates of VTE, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), emergency department visits, reoperations, readmissions, and mortality. Propensity score matching controlled for demographic factors and selected comorbidities.

The incidence of VTE was significantly lower in statin users compared with non-users (0.43% vs 1.13%; P = .047). No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups in rates of DVT, PE, emergency department visits, reoperations, or readmissions. Mortality was 0% in both groups. Further analysis revealed no outcome differences based on statin intensity (low, medium, or high).

“Preoperative statin use is associated with significantly lower rates of VTE events in the 90-day postoperative period following THA,” the authors concluded. “Further research into the effect of statins on post-THA VTE is warranted.”

Reference
Lan R, Vallurupalli N, Aggarwal VK, Bosco JA 3rd, Lajam CM. Statin use is associated with decreased venous thromboembolism events following total hip arthroplasty: a matched retrospective cohort study. J Arthroplasty. 2025;40(8):2101-2105.