ABSTRACT
Over the past decade, the use of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) preparations
has revolutionized the approach to preventing and treating venous thromboembolism.
For established deep venous thrombosis, numerous prospective clinical trials have
indicated that these drugs are at least as safe and as effective as standard, unfractionated
heparin (UFH) and perhaps even more effective at preventing recurrences. Advantages
of low molecular weight heparin include superior bioavailability compared with standard
heparin, once- or twice-daily subcutaneous delivery, and the lack of need to monitor
in most clinical circumstances. Because of these advantages, increasing numbers of
stable, compliant patients with deep venous thrombosis are being treated as outpatients.
This approach requires an organized team effort with comprehensive patient education
and carefully planned follow-up. Cost-benefit analyses have unequivocally proved that
when treatment with low molecular weight heparin is utilized in the outpatient setting,
there are substantial cost savings.
KEYWORD
Deep venous thrombosis - pulmonary embolism - anticoagulation - low molecular weight
heparin - heparin
