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Self-monitoring of blood-thinning treatment almost halves risk of developing blood clots compared with conventional care

A meta-analysis found that self-monitoring of oral anticoagulation therapy with vitamin K antagonists reduced the risk of thromboembolic events, such as deep vein thrombosis and stroke, by 49% compared to conventional care. Self-monitoring was particularly beneficial for younger patients and those with mechanical heart valves.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 30, 2011

Tulane-led study first to confirm effectiveness and safety of new treatment for hemophilia

A new treatment for severe hemophilia A patients with inhibitors has been shown to be highly effective in preventing bleeding events. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that FEIBA infused three times a week resulted in a 62% reduction in all bleeding events and a 72% reduction in target joint bleeding.

SourceTulane University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 2, 2011

ACP recommends new approach to prevent venous thromboembolism in hospitalized patients

The American College of Physicians recommends that doctors assess the risk of venous thromboembolism and bleeding in patients hospitalized for medical illnesses, such as stroke, before initiating therapy to prevent VTE. Heparin or related blood thinners are prescribed unless the assessed risk of bleeding outweighs likely benefits.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateOct 31, 2011

Potential new cause of miscarriage and habitual abortion

A team of researchers has identified a non-classical form of Fetal and Neonatal Immune Thrombocytopenia (FNIT) that causes excessive platelet activation and blood clot formation in the placenta, leading to miscarriage. The condition can be prevented with intravenous IgG and anti-FcRn therapies.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 24, 2011

Increased risk of bleeding with combined use of SSRIs and antiplatelet therapy after heart attacks

Patients taking SSRIs with antiplatelet therapy have a higher risk of bleeding compared to those taking ASA alone. The study found that combining an SSRI with ASA increased the risk by 42%, while dual antiplatelet therapy increased the risk by 57%. Women and patients who underwent angioplasty had lower bleeding risks.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 26, 2011

Study examining large-scale data of double balloon enteroscopy shows it is safe and effective

A large-scale review of DBE found a pooled detection rate of 68.1% for all small intestinal diseases, with inflammatory lesions and vascular lesions being the most common findings in suspected mid-gastrointestinal bleeding patients. The study concluded that DBE is a valuable modality with acceptable detection and complication rates.

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateSep 26, 2011

Study finds no link between intracerebral hemorrhage and statin use among patients with prior stroke

A retrospective study of 17,872 patients found no association between statin use and increased risk of intracerebral hemorrhage after ischemic stroke. The study's results contradict previous findings and suggest that current treatment guidelines recommending statin therapy for most patients with a history of ischemic stroke may be safe.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateSep 12, 2011

The RUBY-1 trial

A phase II dose-finding study found that darexaban, a Factor Xa inhibitor, increased bleeding risks by two to four-fold in patients with acute coronary syndrome. The trial explored the safety and optimal dosing regimen of darexaban in secondary prevention of ischaemic vascular events.

Primary results of the ARISTOTLE trial

The ARISTOTLE trial shows apixaban reduces stroke by 21% and major bleeding by 31% compared to warfarin, without significant increases in bleeding risk. The study's benefits are consistent across various patient subgroups and settings, offering a promising alternative for treating patients with atrial fibrillation.

Evolution provides clue to blood clotting

Scientists at Washington University School of Medicine used evolutionary clues to reveal how a key clotting protein assembles. They found that two histidines play a crucial role in sensing pH changes and guiding the assembly of von Willebrand Factor, leading to new insights into common bleeding disorders.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 20, 2011

ESC calls for greater awareness of potential for adverse events from bleeding as a result of PCI

Emerging evidence suggests a strong association between bleeding and adverse outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndromes undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). Strategies to minimize bleeding include radial access and adjusting anticoagulant doses based on body weight, age, and renal function.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateJun 29, 2011

Analysis of studies evaluates tonsillectomy techniques

A meta-analysis of studies found that new tonsillectomy techniques, including vessel sealing systems and Harmonic Scalpel, show promise in reducing pain, bleeding, and recovery time compared to traditional methods. However, the optimal technique with lowest morbidity rates remains unclear.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateJun 20, 2011

FIGO's new classification of causes of abnormal uterine bleeding benefits patients

The FIGO PALM-COEIN classification system provides a universally accepted method for classifying abnormal uterine bleeding, facilitating communication among clinicians and researchers. The system categorizes causes of AUB into nine categories, enabling consistent and practical application of medical and surgical therapy.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalInternational Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics·DateMay 18, 2011