Use of ecarin chromogenic assay during bivalirudin anticoagulation in adult extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

Bivalirudin directly inhibits clot-bound and circulating thrombin without requiring cofactors, has a short half-life, and lacks immunogenicity, making it an attractive anticoagulant over heparin during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) [1]. Empirical evidence demonstrates a favorable safety and efficacy profile of bivalirudin, and that it may result in increased time in therapeutic range compared to heparin during ECMO [2]. However, an assay that reliably quantifies bivalirudin anticoagulant effect is critical in preventing thrombus deposition and minimizing bleeding complications during the high stakes' context of ECMO support [3].
Source: Thrombosis Research - Category: Hematology Authors: Tags: Letter to the Editors-in-Chief Source Type: research