Patient selection for anticoagulant therapy in coronary heart disease

Abstract

Short-term administration of anticoagulants after myocardial infarction is directed toward preventing thromboembolism, is fairly safe and is potentially beneficial in some cases. Long-term administration of anticoagulants in chronic coronary heart disease is directed toward preventing coronary thrombosis, carries an appreciable risk of hemorrhage but may be of significant benefit in selected patients with advanced disease.