Recent advances in the use of low molecular weight heparins as prophylaxis for deep vein thrombosis.
Low molecular weight heparins are providing a new prophylactic option for preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients undergoing joint replacement surgery. Fragmentation of heparin in laboratory studies revealed differences in coagulation and bleeding factors. This unexpected finding led to clinical trials, starting in 1985 in Europe and the United States. By late 1993, more than 10,000 patients had been admitted to clinical trials of low molecular weight heparins (LMWH) for prevention of DVT. Results of these trials indicated that LMWHs were more effective than unfractionated heparins or warfarin in preventing DVT with no significant increase in bleeding noted.
Colwell
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Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Scripps Clinic and Research Foundation, La Jolla, Calif.
D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D017984:Enoxaparin / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006495:Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006622:Hip Prosthesis; D006801:Humans; D007720:Knee Prosthesis; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control*; D013923:Thromboembolism / Q000517:prevention & control*; D014859:Warfarin / Q000627:therapeutic use
D017984:Enoxaparin; D006495:Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight; D014859:Warfarin