Abstract: Objective To explore the effects of risk factors and preventive treatments of thrombus on the incidence of thromboembolic events. Methods From January 2008 to March 2013, 328 patients underwent surgical treatment ankle fracture were conducted in this retrospective study. Charts were reviewed to identify risk factors, such as tumor, hormone use, pregnancy, blood dyscrasia, history of thromboembolic events, smoking history, obesity, dyslipidosis, atherosclerotic vascular disease, paralysis, etc. Fifty-three patients (16.15%) were treated with thromboprophylaxis (low-molecular-weight heparin or warfarin). The effects of risk factors and preventive treatments of thrombus on the incidence of thromboembolic events were statistical analysed. Results The incidence of thromboembolic events was 2.74% (9 cases), with 2.13% (7 cases) involving deep venous thrombosis and 0.61% (2 cases) involving nonfatal pulmonary embolism. One hundred and forty eight patients (45.1%) had one or more risk factors. Patients with one or more risk factors had a greater risk of thromboembolic events (relative risk 0.66). No significant correlation could be identified between the occurrence of thromboembolic events and risk factors or preventive treatments of thrombus. Conclusion Thromboprophylaxis should not be suggested after the surgical treatment of ankle fractures.

Key words: Thrombus, Fracture, Ankle