Rivaroxaban versus Dabigatran: A new era in venous thromboembolism treatment

Considering the frequency of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, the therapy of these two conditions takes an important place in vascular surgery. Among numerous therapeutic options, new oral anticoagulants, such as rivaroxaban or dabigatran, represent a great improvement in the treatment of venous thromboembolism. Searching MEDLINE base until December 1, 2015 using MESH term "Rivaroxaban versus Dabigatran in VTE", we found 7 studies investigating the usage of new oral anticoagulants in venous thromboembolism treatment. The total of 18,841 patients was enrolled. No head-to-head studies were found. Benefits such as lower therapy price, oral use and greater comfort for patients and health providers place new oral anticoagulants to the frontline of venous thromboembolism treatment. However, we need head-to-head studies to have a clear picture of these two drugs