Antithrombotic therapy in peripheral arterial disease.

The management of elderly patients with peripheral arterial disease requires a multidisciplinary and individualized approach, especially for patients requiring intervention and for those on antithrombotic therapy. Communication between the patient's primary physician, consulting medical specialists, and vascular surgeon is essential because all may contribute synergistically to deliver optimal care to the patient. This article reviews the pathophysiology of peripheral arterial disease and data regarding the use of antiplatelet and anticoagulant agents.