A Higher Altitude Is an Independent Risk Factor for Venous Thromboembolisms After Total Hip Arthroplasty

THAs performed at higher altitudes (>4000 feet) have a higher rate of acute postoperative PEs in the first 30 days and also 90 days postoperatively when compared to matched patients receiving the same surgery at a lower altitude (<100 feet). THA patients at high altitude should be counseled on these increased risks; however, owing to retrospective nature and confounders, prospective studies are necessary to explore this outcome in more detail.