The prophylaxis of venous thrombosis in patients with cancer undergoing major abdominal surgery: emerging options.
Cancer is a risk factor for venous thromboembolism (VTE). This risk is amplified by treatment with chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. Thus, patients with cancer undergoing major surgery should receive appropriate prophylaxis. Available agents include low-dose unfractionated heparin (LDUH), low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH), and Factor Xa inhibitors. Recent data suggest that Factor Xa inhibitors are safe and effective for VTE prevention in patients with cancer undergoing abdominal surgery. Further study in this patient population is warranted.
Agnelli
Giancarlo
G
Stroke Unit and Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy. agnellig@unipg.it
Caprini
Joseph A
JA
D000005:Abdomen / Q000601:surgery*; D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D065427:Factor Xa Inhibitors; D000077425:Fondaparinux; D006493:Heparin / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D011134:Polysaccharides / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012307:Risk Factors; D020246:Venous Thrombosis / Q000517:prevention & control*
D000925:Anticoagulants; D065427:Factor Xa Inhibitors; D011134:Polysaccharides; D006493:Heparin; D000077425:Fondaparinux