Patients with objectively proven CTEPH should be promptly evaluated for pulmonary endarterectomy, even if symptoms are mild, and receive indefinite therapeutic anticoagulation in the absence of contraindications, they advised.
In the interview, Dr. McMurtry said that other guidelines address various aspects of venous thromboembolism, including the American College of Chest Physicians guidelines on the prevention of venous thromboembolism (Chest 2008;133:381S-453S) and the European Society of Cardiology guidelines for the management of pulmonary embolism (Eur. Heart J. 2008;29:2276-315). "What is different about this statement is that it has a narrow focus on extreme forms of venous thromboembolism to help the clinician decide whether more aggressive therapies beyond anticoagulation are indicated. This focus and level of detail [are] not found in other documents."
Dr. McMurtry stated that he has no relevant financial disclosures. Dr. Jaff disclosed that he has served as a speaker for, or an adviser to, Bacchus Vascular, Abbott Vascular, Boston Scientific, Covidien, and Medtronic Vascular. Several coauthors reported having research grant, speakers bureau, or advisory ties to other pharmaceutical or device companies.