Rivaroxaban for the prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common and often life-threatening cardiovascular disorder. Patients undergoing total hip replacement or total knee replacement surgery are at increased risk of VTE. In this setting, clinical practice guidelines recommend the use of low molecular weight heparins, vitamin K antagonists or fondaparinux for the prevention of VTE. However, the use of these anticoagulants is beset by practical difficulties that …