Heart transplantation in patients with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia on the Novacor left ventricular assist system.
We report on two patients with development of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia with thrombosis while on the Novacor left ventricular assist system. Heart transplantation was successfully performed in both patients with heparin used for cardiopulmonary bypass after careful monitoring of heparin-associated antibodies. The approach to the patients' management and potential alternatives for anticoagulation are discussed.
Brozena
S C
SC
Department of Medicine, MCP, Hahnemann School of Medicine of the Allegheny University of the Health Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
Twomey
C
C
Siegel
J
J
Peterson
P
P
Horrow
J C
JC
Samuels
L
L
Morris
R
R
D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002311:Cardiomyopathy, Dilated / Q000628:therapy; D002315:Cardiopulmonary Bypass; D016027:Heart Transplantation; D006353:Heart-Assist Devices; D006493:Heparin / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000628:therapy; D013921:Thrombocytopenia / Q000139:chemically induced*; D013927:Thrombosis / Q000139:chemically induced*
D000925:Anticoagulants; D006493:Heparin