Are low-molecular-weight heparins useful for the prophylaxis and treatment of arterial thrombi?

The pharmacologic specificity of low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWHs) has enabled multiple attractive developments in the prophylaxis and treatment of arterial thrombosis. Their high antithrombotic potency associated with a potentially lower induced bleeding risk, the lack of platelet interaction, the prevention of myointimal hyperplasia, and the lower incidence of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, are major advantages. New studies in cardiology and vascular surgery demonstrate a high efficacy for LMWHs associated with a low risk.