DrugLib.com — Drug Information Portal

Rx drug information, pharmaceutical research, clinical trials, news, and more



[R-hirudin (lepirudin, refludan) as an alternative anticoagulant in heparin-induced thrombocytopenia during cardiopulmonary bypass connection]

Author(s): Shah AC, Genoni M, Niederhauser U, Maloigne M, Turina M

Affiliation(s): Abteilung fur Herzchirurgie, Stadtspital Triemli, Zurich.

Publication date & source: 2000-06-10, Schweiz Med Wochenschr., 130(23):896-9.

Publication type: Case Reports

A 72-year-old patient with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) and global cardiac decompensation underwent cardiac surgery using an extracorporeal circuit (ECC). For systemic anticoagulation r-Hirudin (lepirudin, Refludan) was administered as a heparin substitute during extracorporeal circuit. During cardiopulmonary bypass (100 min) the concentration of r-Hirudin was between 2.9 and 4.6 mcg/ml under continuous infusion of r-Hirudin at between 1.5 and 4.5 mcg/kg/min. The operation was successful and during its course no abnormal bleeding or fibrin formation in the extracorporeal circuit was observed. One hour after operation haemorrhage occurred and rethoracotomy was performed without discovering the cause of the surgical bleeding. After substitution with fresh frozen plasma, thrombocytes and Prothromblex the bleeding stopped on the operation day. The further postoperative course was uncomplicated. After 3 days the patient came to nursing station and was discharged from hospital to a rehabilitation centre after 13 days. After a further 3 weeks he went home in a good general condition.

Page last updated: 2006-01-31

-- advertisement -- The American Red Cross
 
Home | About Us | Contact Us | Site usage policy | Privacy policy

All Rights reserved - Copyright DrugLib.com, 2006-2017