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Opinion Article - Journal of Cholesterol and Heart Disease (2023) Volume 7, Issue 2
Optimizing Anticoagulation Therapy in Left Ventricular Assist Device Patients
Marshall Kiven *
Department of Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan
- *Corresponding Author:
- Marshall Kiven
Department of Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine,
Juntendo University,
Tokyo, Japan
E-mail: kiv@marshall.jp
Received: 29-Mar-2023, Manuscript No. AACHD-23-94398; Editor assigned: 01-Apr-2023, PreQC No. AACHD-23-94398(PQ); Reviewed: 15-Apr-2023, QC No. AACHD-23-94398; Revised: 19-Apr-2023, Manuscript No. AACHD-23-94398; Published: 26-Apr-2023, DOI:10.35841/aachd-7.2.138
Citation: Kiven M. Optimizing anticoagulation therapy in left ventricular assist device patients. J Cholest Heart Dis 2023;7(2):138
Abstract
This is a mechanical device that is implanted in the chest to help the heart pump blood. It is used for patients with advanced heart failure who are waiting for a heart transplant or who are not eligible for a transplant. Anticoagulation therapy plays a crucial role in the management of patients with left ventricular assist devices (LVADs). The goal of anticoagulation therapy in LVAD patients is to maintain a balance between preventing thrombosis (clot formation) while avoiding bleeding complications.
Keywords
Anticoagulation therapy, Left ventricular assist device, Heart transplant, Thrombosis
Introduction
Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs) are an important treatment option for patients with end-stage heart failure who are not candidates for heart transplantation or are waiting for a transplant. These mechanical pumps help to support the heart’s function and improve blood flow to the rest of the body. However, because they are implanted within the body, they require anticoagulation therapy to prevent blood clots from forming within the device or the blood vessels around it [1].
Anticoagulation therapy is typically achieved with the use of medications such as warfarin or heparin. However, achieving the optimal level of anticoagulation can be challenging and requires close monitoring and management by healthcare professionals. Several factors can influence the anticoagulation status of LVAD patients, including their medical history, device type, and individual response to medication. As such, optimizing anticoagulation therapy requires a personalized approach that takes into account the patient’s medical history, current condition, and potential risk factors for bleeding or clotting [2].
One of the key considerations in optimizing anticoagulation therapy is determining the appropriate target range for the patient’s international normalized ratio (INR). The INR is a measure of the blood’s ability to clot and is used to monitor the effectiveness of anticoagulation therapy. In LVAD patients, the target INR range is typically between 2.0 and 3.0 with some variations depending on the patient’s individual risk factors. However, maintaining this range can be challenging, as the INR can be influenced by several factors, including changes in medication, diet, or other medications [3]
The therapeutic index is an important concept in the fields of pharmacology and medicinal chemistry. It is a measure of a drug's safety and efficacy, determined by the ratio of the dose that produces the desired therapeutic effect to the dose that produces the toxic effect. The therapeutic index plays an important role in drug development, drug formulation and administration, and combination therapy development. This is an important consideration for ensuring that medicines are safe and effective for patients [4].
To optimize anticoagulation therapy, it is important to closely monitor the patient’s INR and adjust their medication regimen as needed. This requires frequent monitoring of the INR level, typically at least once a week, and adjusting medication dosages based on the patient’s response to treatment. In addition, healthcare professionals must work closely with the patient to ensure they are following their medication regimen, monitoring for potential side effects, and adhering to any dietary or lifestyle recommendations.
Another important factor in optimizing anticoagulation therapy is managing potential bleeding or clotting complications. LVAD patients are at an increased risk for both bleeding and clotting, which can be life-threatening if not managed appropriately. Healthcare professionals must be vigilant in monitoring for signs of bleeding or clotting, including unusual bruising, red or dark urine, chest pain, or shortness of breath. If these symptoms occur, prompt medical attention is necessary to minimize the risk of complications. Anticoagulation therapy is essential in the management of LVAD patients to prevent thrombotic complications. The selection of anticoagulation therapy should be individualized based on the patient's risk factors and comorbidities, and close monitoring is necessary to prevent bleeding and thrombotic events [5].
Conclusion
Optimizing anticoagulation therapy in LVAD patients requires a personalized approach that takes into account the patient’s medical history, device type, and individual response to medication. Healthcare professionals must closely monitor the patient’s INR, adjust medication dosages as needed, and manage potential bleeding or clotting complications. With careful management and monitoring, LVAD patients can achieve optimal anticoagulation therapy and improve their outcomes
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References
- Habash F, Vallurupalli S. Challenges in management of left ventricular thrombus. Ther Adv Cardiovasc Dis. 2017;11(8):203-13.
- Al-Khadra AS, Salem DN, Rand WM, et al. Warfarin anticoagulation and survival: A cohort analysis from the studies of left ventricular dysfunction. J Am Coll Cardiol. 1998;31(4):749-53.
- Lee GY, Song YB, Hahn JY, et al. Anticoagulation in ischemic left ventricular aneurysm. InMayo Clin Proc 2015;90(4):441-49).
- Guddeti RR, Anwar M, Walters RW, et al. Treatment of left ventricular thrombus with direct oral anticoagulants: A retrospective observational study. Am J Med. 2020;133(12):1488-91.
- Fleddermann AM, Hayes CH, Magalski A, et al. Efficacy of direct acting oral anticoagulants in treatment of left ventricular thrombus. Am J Card. 2019;124(3):367-72.