Venous Thromboembolism – Current Diagnostic and Treatment Modalities

BACKGROUND Pulmonary embolism and deep venous thrombosis, known as venous thromboembolism (VTE), are associated with a high proportion of morbidity and mortality. AIM Aim of this review is to emphasise current diagnostic and therapeutic modalities for VTE. RESULTS No differences have been noticed in European and American guidelines in diagnostic approach of this disorder. Today there is enough clinical information for the use of heparin (either, unfractionated or low molecular) and vitamin K antagonists in the treatment of acute and chronic phases of VTE. Novel oral anticoagulants seem to have some advantages in the treatment of this disorder. Rivaroxaban has been approved widespread, for use as a single-drug approach of VTE. CONCLUSION Both guidelines are almost similar and good basis for evidence-based treatment of this disorder.