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Venous thromboembolism (VTE) encompasses two vascular conditions that are of significant importance, namely deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). DVT is also the most common cause of PE. Medical and surgical patients, and individuals who are at increased risk of developing VTE through a variety of factors, require adequate thromboprophylaxis. Primary and secondary prevention, as well as the definitive treatment of VTE, are accomplished through the use of a variety of anticoagulant drugs. This article attempts to provide an overview of VTE, and its prevention and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common cardiac rhythm disorder and patients with this condition are at an increased risk of strokes and other thromboembolic events. Available treatment options for the prevention of strokes in patients with AF include warfarin, aspirin and the novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs). Warfarin and aspirin reduce the risk of strokes in patients with AF and have been studied extensively. The NOACs are slowly beginning to make their way onto the South African market and are specifically highlighted in this article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]