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Current and emerging therapies in the management of venothromboembolism
More deaths are attributed each year to venothromboembolism (VTE) than to motor vehicle accidents, breast cancer, and AIDS combined, but it remains under-recognized and undertreated. Prophylaxis is the most appropriate and cost-effective strategy to reduce the occurrence of VTE and its devastating consequences, however prophylactic measures are underutilized. It is imperative that all patients at risk for VTE be identified and receive effective prophylaxis for an appropriate period of time.
Results of trials examining the use of novel oral factor Xa inhibitors in the prevention of deep venous thromboembolism (DVT) are becoming available, and further studies are underway into their use in the treatment of DVT, the prevention of stroke in atrial fibrillation patients and in the treatment of ACS.
The RECORD 3 study investigated the safety and efficacy of a fixed, unmonitored regimen of the oral direct factor Xa inhibitor rivaroxaban for the prevention of VTE after major orthopedic surgery. The RECORD1 study compared rivaroxaban with enoxaparin when used for extended prophylaxis after total hip arthroplasty (THA). RECORD 2 investigated the use of extended duration rivaroxaban compared to short-term enoxaparin for the prevention of VTE, including major VTE, in patients undergoing THA.
Physicians must be aware of the safety and efficacy of new therapeutic options for the prevention and treatment of VTE.
PURPOSE/GOAL: The goal of this program is to educate healthcare professionals involved in both the short- and long-term prevention and treatment of thromboembolism.
TARGET AUDIENCE: Healthcare providers involved in the management, treatment and prevention of thromboembolism.
EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES:
* Discuss the role of novel oral anticoagulants in preventing venothromboembolism
* Describe the limitations of warfarin
* Review recent clinical trial data describing the role of new oral anticoagulants in the management of venothromboembolism
* Identify unmet needs in the prevention and treatment of venothromboembolism
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Medscape designates this educational activity for a maximum of 0.25 AMA PRA Category 1 CreditTM. Each participant should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of his/her participation in the activity.
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COMMERCIAL SUPPORT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: This educational activity is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Scios Inc and Bayer AG.