ABSTRACT
SUMMARY Venous thromboembolic (VTE) disease, comprising deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism (PE), is a common and potentially morbid or fatal condition in older adults. The increase in risk observed in the elderly is usually associated with concurrent conditions rather than intrinsic hypercoagulability. Clinical data support thromboprophylaxis for the majority of patients in the hospital setting. Recommendations for continuing preventative therapy after hospital discharge are less well defined. Treatment and secondary prevention of VTE are discussed during three periods of time-acute treatment beginning with suspicion of the diagnosis through stabilization on an anticoagulant, long-term therapy following diagnosis (usually 3-6 months), and extended therapy which may continue indefinitely for some patients.
