Summary
The aim of this experimental study was to determine whether deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
in animals occurs after osteosynthesis of the femur, and whether a postoperative drop
in air pressure increases the frequence of DVT Thus, osteosynthesis of the femur was
performed in 10 New Zealand rabbits. Postoperatively a drop in air pressure of 300
hPA was induced. After 40 h in the pressure cabin ascending phlebography was performed
(Group A). In a control-group of 10 other rabbits surgery was performed without postoperative
drop in air pressure (Group B) while in a second control only the drop in air pressure
was induced without surgery (Group C).
The phlebographic studies showed DVT in 4 out of 10 rabbits in group A. In group B
there was no demonstrable DVT while in group C one ease of DVT was seen. The difference
between group A and group B and C is statistically significant. In conclusion, a rapid
drop in air pressure seems to have significant impact on the pathogenesis of DVT in
rabbits after osteosynthesis of the femur.
