Clinical overview of venous thromboembolism

  • Gustav Schellack
  • Tumelo Modau Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
  • Natalie Schellack Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Keywords: anticoagulants, deep vein thrombosis, DVT, embolus, NOAC, PE, pulmonary embolism, thromboprophylaxis, thrombus, venous thromboembolism, Virchow’s triad, VTE

Abstract

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) encompasses two vascular conditions that are of significant importance, namely deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). DVT is also the most common cause of PE. Medical and surgical patients, and individuals who are at increased risk of developing VTE through a variety of factors, require adequate thromboprophylaxis. Primary and secondary prevention, as well as the definitive treatment of VTE, are accomplished through the use of a variety of anticoagulant drugs. This article attempts to provide an overview of VTE, and its prevention and treatment.

Author Biographies

Gustav Schellack
BCur, Adv Univ Dipl Nurs (HSM), Hons BSc (Pharmacology) Clinical research professional with a special interest in GCP and applied pharmacology
Tumelo Modau, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
BPharm, Academic Intern Department of Pharmacy Faculty of Health Sciences Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Natalie Schellack, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
BCur, BPharm, PhD Senior Lecturer Department of Pharmacy Faculty of Health Sciences Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Section
Review Articles