Thromboembolism: New Achievements and Challenges
Proceedings of the 6th International Symposium on Thromboembolic Diseases
Lisbon, June 4-5, 1999
Editors: Sylvia Haas, Munich; Mark Levine, Hamilton, Ont.; Meyer-Michel Samama, Paris

Workshop 2: Chairmen: H. Büller, S. Schulman
Optimization of Treatment for Venous Thromboembolism and Prevention of Recurrences

Can All Patients with Deep Vein Thrombosis Receive Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin in an Outpatient Setting?
Per Lindmarker

Coagulation Unit, Division of Haematology, Karolinska Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden

Address of Corresponding Author

Haemostasis 1999;29:84-88 (DOI: 10.1159/000054120)

  Key Words

• Low-molecular-weight heparin
• Outpatient
• Venous thromboembolism
• Feasibility

  Abstract

Studies have shown subcutaneous low- molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) to be at least as safe and efficacious as intravenous unfractionated heparin (UFH) for the treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Furthermore, unlike UFH, LMWH is administered on a once- or twice-daily basis without monitoring in uncomplicated cases. Consequently, it has been suggested that the large majority of patients with VTE could be treated on an outpatient basis. Exceptions include patients with an increased risk of haemorrhage, pregnant women, children and those with renal insufficiency. Outpatient management would offer economic advantages and be more convenient for both the patient and the hospital staff.

Copyright © 1999 S. Karger AG, Basel

  Author Contacts

Dr. P. Lindmarker
Coagulation Unit, Division of Haematology
Karolinska Hospital
SE-171 76 Stockholm (Sweden)

  Article Information

Number of Print Pages : 5
Number of Figures : 0, Number of Tables : 4, Number of References : 16