[Low-molecular weight heparin. A new agent to prevent thrombosis].

The theory for employment of low molecular weight heparin and the material concerning employment of low molecular weight heparin hitherto published is reviewed. To date, it has been demonstrated that low molecular weight heparin has the same antithrombotic efficacy as unfractionated heparin and its half life is approximately twice as long. This implies that adequate thrombosis prophylaxis can be obtained with a single daily dose.