Abstract
Popularity of low‐molecular‐weight heparins (LMWH) continues to grow. Clinical trials established their efficacy for various venous thromboembolic disease states. Their use in arterial disorders is also becoming widespread. Unfortunately, clinical trials in this population subgroup are either lacking or show little or no benefit of LMWH. Specifically, they appear to offer no benefit over antiplatelet agents, such as aspirin and ticlopidine, after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. Conversely, they may have a role in the management of unstable angina. At this time, however, their efficacy appears equivalent only to therapeutic dosages of unfractionated heparin.