The optimal duration of anticoagulant therapy for venous thrombosis
Article Abstract:
It may be necessary to give long-term anticoagulation only to those patients who have an irreversible risk factor for a second case of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism occur when a blood clot blocks a vein in the legs or lungs, respectively. Several studies have shown that the risk of recurrence of these conditions in people who experience a first occurrence is relatively low if they have a reversible risk factor, such as recent surgery. These patients will do well on preventive anticoagulation that only lasts a few weeks. However, patients who have irreversible risk factors, such as cancer, may need long-term anticoagulation treatment lasting several months. Even in these patients, the risk of a fatal pulmonary embolism is relatively low. Consequently, it may be unnecessary to treat these patients with life-long anticoagulation.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1995
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Oral anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapy and peripheral arterial disease
Article Abstract:
A study investigates whether oral anti-coagulation in combination with antiplatelet therapy is superior to the therapy alone in patients with peripheral arterial disease. Results show that the combination is not more effective than the antiplatelet therapy alone in preventing major cardiovascular complications and is associated with an increase in life-threatening bleeding.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 2007
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Choosing a parenteral anticoagulant agent
Article Abstract:
There are many anticoagulant drugs derived from heparin that are easier to use than heparin or warfarin and have fewer side effects. These drugs can be used in surgical patients to prevent thromboembolism. This condition occurs when blood clots form in the legs and travel to the lungs.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 2001
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