Thrombosis research
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Thrombosis research · Apr 2009
Meta AnalysisEfficacy of low- molecular- weight- heparin versus vitamin K antagonists for long term treatment of cancer-associated venous thromboembolism in adults: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.
Patients with malignancy have a 4-fold increase in the risk of developing a venous thrombosis and a 3-fold increase in risk of bleeding. Both low-molecular-weight-heparin (LMWH) and vitamin K antagonists (VKA) have been used for treatment of cancer-associated thrombosis. However, the best anticoagulation approach remains a matter of debate. ⋯ The results of our review suggest that the long term use of LMWH after the acute first week of treatment is superior to VKAs for secondary prevention of venous thromboembolism in adult patients with cancer.