Is Extended VTE Prophylaxis Beneficial After Acute Nonsurgical Hospitalizations?

In a randomized trial, posthospital prophylaxis with rivaroxaban did not significantly lower the incidence of symptomatic or fatal venous thromboembolism.

Risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE) persists for weeks after hospitalization for acute medical illness. However, previous studies of extended VTE prophylaxis after hospital discharge have failed to show that benefits of anticoagulation outweigh bleeding complications in nonsurgical patients (NEJM JW Gen Med Mar 1 2013 and N Engl J Med 2013; 368:513). In this latest industry-sponsored trial, 12,000 hospitalized patients with heart failure, respiratory illness, ischemic stroke, or acute infectious or inflammatory diseases were randomized to either rivaroxaban or placebo for 45 days following hospital discharge. All patients had additional risk factors for VTE.

The primary outcome (symptomatic VTE or VTE-related death) occurred with similar f…

Reviewing Author

Allan S. Brett, MD

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose

Allan S. Brett, MD

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose

Is Extended VTE Prophylaxis Beneficial After Acute Nonsurgical Hospitalizations?

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Reviewing Author