[Heparin treatment. Comparison between intravenous and subcutaneous administration]

Area of Science:

• Vascular Medicine
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a significant cause of morbidity.
• Effective anticoagulation is crucial for managing DVT and preventing complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy and safety of subcutaneous (s.c.) versus continuous intravenous (i.v.) sodium heparin for treating acute lower limb deep venous thrombosis.

Main Methods:

• 48 patients with acute DVT were randomized to receive s.c. heparin twice daily or continuous i.v. heparin.
• Clinical outcomes (pain, edema), venographic findings, and anticoagulation effectiveness (thrombin time) were assessed.

Main Results:

• Symptom resolution occurred slightly faster with s.c. heparin (8.7 days) than i.v. heparin (11.7 days).
• One non-fatal pulmonary embolism occurred in each treatment group.
• Anticoagulation was ineffective on at least one day in 39% of s.c. patients and 60% of i.v. patients.
• Ineffective anticoagulation was associated with the pulmonary embolism events in both groups.

Conclusions:

• Both subcutaneous and intravenous heparin are viable treatment options for acute deep venous thrombosis.
• Ensuring effective anticoagulation is paramount to prevent thromboembolic complications, irrespective of the administration route.