MedGenMed : Medscape general medicine
-
On the basis of theoretical rationale, heparoids and vitamin K antagonists are prescribed to prevent complications of venous thromboembolism (VTE, including pulmonary emboli [PE] and deep vein thrombosis [DVT]). They have been employed as the standard of care for treatment of VTE for over 40 years. ⋯ Anticoagulants have not been proven efficacious or safe in VTE. The bleeding risks and other complications of anticoagulation are unacceptably high. The use of anticoagulants for patients with VTE should be reconsidered.