Low-molecular-weight heparin in preventing and treating DVT

Low-molecular-weight heparin is a relatively recent addition to the list of therapies for prophylaxis and treatment;of deep venous thrombosis (DVT). A s a prophylactic, low-molecular-weight heparin is as effective as standard heparin or warfarin and does not require monitoring of the activated partia l thromboplastin time or the International Normalized Ratio. Traditionally, treatment for DVT required patients to be hospitalized for administration of intravenous heparin. With subcutaneous injections of low-molecular-weigh t heparin, treatment of DVT can be initiated or completed in the outpatient setting with no increased risk of recurrent thromboembolism or bleeding co mplications. Low-molecular-weight heparin is an attractive option for use i n patients with a first episode of DVT, no risk factors for bleeding and th e ability to administer injections with or without the help of a visiting n urse or family member.