Title:Anticoagulation Treatment in Venous Thromboembolism: Options and Optimal
Duration
Volume: 28
Issue: 4
Author(s): Stavrianna Diavati , Marios Sagris, Dimitrios Terentes-Printzios*Charalambos Vlachopoulos
Affiliation:
- Oxford Heart Centre, NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford,United Kingdom
Keywords:
Venous thromboembolism, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, treatment options, duration, direct oral anticoagulants
Abstract: Venous thromboembolism (VTE), clinically presented as deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary
embolism (PE), constitutes a major global healthcare concern with severe complications, long-term morbidity,
and mortality. Although several clinical, genetic, and acquired risk factors for VTE have been identified, the
molecular pathophysiology and mechanisms of disease progression remain poorly understood. Anticoagulation
has been the cornerstone of therapy for decades, but data is sparse regarding primary and secondary VTE prevention,
as well as optimal therapy duration. In this review, we discuss the role of factor Xa in the coagulation
cascade and the different choices of anticoagulation therapy based on patients’ predisposing risk factors and
risk of event recurrence. Further, we compare newer agents to traditional anticoagulation treatment based on
the most recent studies and guidelines.