Antithrombotic therapy for valve disease: native and prosthetic valves.

The use of antithrombotic agents to prevent thromboembolic events in patients with valvular heart disease is common. Recent studies using improved diagnostic techniques have allowed better elucidation of valvular abnormalities and re-evaluated the incidence and risk of thromboembolism. We review the recent literature examining the risk of thromboembolic events in various valvular abnormalities, and the use of different antithrombotic agents in the prevention of thromboembolic events. We also review the current recommended practice in both native valve abnormalities and prosthetic heart valves.