The management of anticoagulation in patients with prosthetic heart valves undergoing non-cardiac operations.
Prosthetic valve thrombogenicity and bleeding complications associated with life-long anticoagulation are constant potential causes of morbidity and mortality following prosthetic valve implantation. The conflict between over- and under-anticoagulation is even more of a problem when other surgical interventions are required. Very few clinical trials have addressed this issue. We propose some guidelines based on the concept of risk-adjusted intensity of anticoagulation but stress the need for caution with interpretation of these recommendations.
Busuttil
W J
WJ
Cardiothoracic Centre, Liverpool, UK.
Fabri
B M
BM
D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D006350:Heart Valve Prosthesis / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D011184:Postoperative Period; D012307:Risk Factors; D013927:Thrombosis / Q000517:prevention & control*
D000925:Anticoagulants