Anticoagulation Treatment in Venous Thromboembolism: Options and Optimal Duration

Venous thromboembolism (VTE), clinically presented as deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE), constitutes a major global healthcare concern with severe complications, long-term morbidity, and mortality. Although several clinical, genetic, and acquired risk factors for VTE have been identified, the molecular pathophysiology and mechanisms of disease progression remain poorly understood. Anticoagulation has been the cornerstone of therapy for decades, but data is sparse regarding primary and secondary VTE prevention, as well as optimal therapy duration. In this review, we discuss the role of factor Xa in the coagulation cascade and the different choices of anticoagulation therapy based on patients’ predisposing risk factors and risk of event recurrence. Further, we compare newer agents to traditional anticoagulation treatment based on the most recent studies and guidelines.