Setting a standard for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis

Trials of the new antithrombotic agent fondaparinux sodium in patients undergoing orthopedic surgery are discussed. Phase II studies conducted in more than 900 hip-replacement and 400 knee-replacement patients demonstrated significant dose-dependent reductions in the frequency of venous thromboembolism. Phase III trials evaluated the efficacy and safety of fondaparinux sodium 2.5 mg s.c. once daily starting six hours after surgery compared with …