Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
anticoagulation
Medical therapy using medications to prevent blood clot formation and reduce thrombotic risk.
Full Definition
Anticoagulation refers to the therapeutic use of medications that interfere with the blood clotting cascade to prevent thrombus formation. In vascular medicine, anticoagulants are essential for managing conditions like atrial fibrillation, venous thromboembolism, and preventing clot formation in prosthetic grafts or stents. Common agents include warfarin, heparin, and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). Monitoring is crucial as these medications increase bleeding risk while providing thrombotic protection.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from antiplatelet therapy, which works through different mechanisms.
In Context
- "The patient was started on therapeutic anticoagulation following diagnosis of acute DVT." — Treatment plan
- "Perioperative anticoagulation management required careful coordination with cardiology." — Surgical consultation
Also known as
blood thinning
antithrombotic therapy
Contrasted with
coagulation
hemostasis
Don't confuse with
antiplatelet therapy