Abstract

In the article on deep-vein thrombosis (March 17, p. 22) we remarked that infusions of dextran-70 seem not to affect the incidence of pulmonary embolism. A correspondent has pointed out however that the pooled results of all published trials show a reduced incidence in the treated groups (Bygdeman, S. Lancet 1970, ii, 419). This benefit has to be weighed against the disadvantages of dextran-70 which we mentioned.