Direct thrombin inhibitors.

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death and pathologic coagulation plays an integral role in the development, propagation, and intervention of cardiovascular disease. The 2 classic anticoagulants, heparin and vitamin K antagonists, though having served humanity for nearly a century, are both inconvenient and nonspecific. Through both direct and indirect roles, thrombin is essential to coagulation, and makes for a very attractive target in medical intervention of pathologic thrombosis. This article will review the nature of direct thrombin inhibitors, current indications, and ongoing trials.

Duke Scholars

Author Leila Mureebe Surgery, Vascular and Endovascular Surgery