[Fondaparinux as an alternative anticoagulant in heparin-induced thrombocytopenia in the patient with a ventricular assist device]

Rev Esp Anestesiol Reanim. 2013 Nov;60(9):531-4. doi: 10.1016/j.redar.2012.09.006. Epub 2012 Nov 13.
[Article in Spanish]

Abstract

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia is a reaction associated with the use of this drug. It occurs in up to 3% of patients treated for at least 5 days. Its treatment is to stop the heparin, and according to patient needs, replace it with another anticoagulant. We present a patient who, after a heart transplant, and the need for a ventricular assist device, required anticoagulation. The patient developed heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. Heparin was stopped and anticoagulation was replaced by fondaparinux. The peri-operative complications and the management of the coagulation are described.

Keywords: Anticoagulación; Anticoagulation; Heparin; Heparina; Thrombocytopenia; Trombocitopenia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use*
  • Fondaparinux
  • Heart-Assist Devices*
  • Heparin / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Polysaccharides / therapeutic use*
  • Thrombocytopenia / chemically induced*
  • Thrombocytopenia / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Polysaccharides
  • Heparin
  • Fondaparinux