A Clearinghouse for Information about Blood Clots (DVT/)PE) and Clotting Disorders (thrombophilia) provided as a public service by the University of North Carolina Blood Research Center

Category: Therapy

IVC Filters, May-Thurner Syndrome, Pelvic Vein Stents

Stephan Moll, MD writes… An article for patients discussing (a) IVC filters, (b) narrowing of the main left pelvic vein (May-Thurner syndrome) and (c) pelvic venous stents has just been published (http://circ.ahajournals.org/content/133/6/e383.full.pdf). Color images of anatomy, filters and stents are included as visual aids. The article may be helpful as handout material for patients in…

February 18, 2016
New Comprehensive Clinical Guidance on VTE Treatment

Stephan Moll, MD writes… A new consensus guidance on management of venous thromboembolism (VTE) – link here – was published today, Jan 18th, 2016, in the Journal of Thrombosis and Thrombolysis. The publication contains 13 chapters on various aspects of VTE

January 18, 2016
ACCP Guideline for DVT and PE Treatment: New Edition, 2016

The ACCP Chest Guidelines have been the main guide over the last more than 2 decades for evidence-based recommendations on best management of anticoagulants for various indications, including DVT and PE. The 10th edition of the chapter on DVT and PE management was published in Jan 2016 [ref 1]. Unfortunately, the guideline is not available for non-subscribers.

January 8, 2016
Scuba Diving While on an Anticoagulant

Stephan Moll, MD writes… Can patients on anticoagulants safely scuba dive? In general: “Yes”. Many people who take anticoagulants are able to safely dive. However, there are a few things to consider:

July 15, 2015
Warfarin Interruption for Surgery: Bridging with LMWH Often Not Needed

Stephan Moll, MD writes: Interesting and relevant publication today in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM)

June 22, 2015
Reversal Agent for Pradaxa: Important NEJM Publication Today

Stephan Moll, MD writes… A publication in the New England Journal of Medicine today reports on the use of the Pradaxa® (Dabigatran) antidote Idarucizumab in patients on Pradaxa® who present with major bleeding or require urgent surgery [ref 1].

June 22, 2015
Fourth NOAC FDA Approved for DVT, PE and Atrial Fibrillation: Savaysa (Edoxaban)

Stephan Moll, MD writes…. Today (Jan 8th, 2015) the FDA approved yet another new oral anticoagulant, Savaysa (edoxaban), for the treatment of DVT and PE, as well as for atrial fibrillation. The FDA press release is here (link). Savaysa is the 4th of the NOACS now approved for VTE treatment. This table summarizes the differences, advantages and disadvantages comparing the 4 drugs. The…

January 8, 2015
Two Things Physicians Should Avoid

Stephan Moll, MD writes (Dec 17, 2014)… The American Society of Hematology (ASH) published last week as part of its Choosing Wisely® campaign two things that physicians dealing with DVT, PE and anticoagulants should avoid [ref 1].

December 17, 2014