The Genetic Factor: Identifying Patients at High Risk for Developing Pulmonary Embolism (PE) After Orthopedic Surgery (Upper Extremity, Spine, THR, TKR) Using A Molecular Screening Test

Institutional Review Board, Hospital for Special Surgery

July 06, 2005

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Principal Investigator

Geoffrey H. Westrich, MD

Co-Investigators

Eduardo A. Salvati, MD
Babette B. Weksler, MD
Adam Rana
Alejandro González Della Valle, MD
Nicole A. Taveras
Charles J. Glueck, MD

Summary

The purpose of the research is to investigate if combinations of the genetic prothrombotic factors such as, AT III, PAI-1 4G/4G, and prothrombin G20210A demonstrate an association with blood clotting therefore increasing the risk of developing hypercoagulation-based complications such as Deep Venous Thrombosis and Pulmonary Emboli. The researchers want to learn if a blood test could help to determine which patients are at a higher risk of developing these clots. They want to determine if people with a positive test for a blood clot also have certain molecular markers (chemicals) in their blood compared to people who do not have a clot. The researchers expect to enroll 500 patients in this research study which will involve one visit, lasting about fifteen minutes.

Inclusion/Exclusion Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

1. Have successfully undergone orthopedic surgery (upper extremity, spine, Total Hip Replacement or Total Knee Replacement)
2. Have had a test for a blood clot in either their surgical site, legs or lungs after the surgery

Exclusion Criteria

1. Contraindications to magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging, such as patients with pacemakers, certain otologic and penile implants, most cerebral aneurysm clips, and claustrophobia
2. Patients with known hematological abnormalities that may alter the risk of thromboembolism

Contact Information

Principal Investigator
Geoffrey Westrich, MD
Hospital for Special Surgery
535 East 70th Street, Rm. 324
New York, NY 10021

Tel: 212.606.1510
Fax: 212.639.9266
Email: westrichg@hss.edu