ABSTRACT
The development of effective anticoagulation strategies was critical to the establishment of vascular surgery as a specialty. Today, we are fortunate to have established anticoagulant agents such as heparin and warfarin, which have proven effective for the prevention and treatment of most thromboembolic disorders. In addition, there are numerous exciting new pharmacological options currently undergoing clinical trials; these may ultimately improve on the effectiveness of current agents and their safety profiles. Vascular surgeons must be knowledgeable about the pharmacology of each agent, its indications for use, and how the effect of the agent is monitored. Most failures in anticoagulant therapy arise from improper choice of agent or administration of insufficient or excessive amounts of the anticoagulant. The major complication of anticoagulation therapy is hemorrhage; however, other, less common adverse effects may affect the survival of life and/or limb.
