[New therapeutic approaches to pulmonary embolism: trials' results and significance of direct oral anticoagulants]

Abstract

Venous thromboembolisms (VTE) are frequently encountered emergencies that sometimes run a fatal course. Diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in patients with suspected pulmonary embolism (PE) are based on the presence of shock and hypotension. Oral anticoagulation is recommended for at least three months, extended anticoagulation should be considered for patients with unprovoked PE and low bleeding risk. As an alternative to vitamin K antagonists, direct oral anticoagulants are recommended. The present review discusses the mode of action, current data, and the status of rivaroxaban, dabigatran, apixaban and edoxaban in the treatment of PE - taking into account the new guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology and their clinical implementation.