Apixaban Use in LVAD Patient with Recurrent GI Bleeding and Recent Embolic Stroke

Background: Left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) have been shown to improve quality of life and decrease mortality in patients with advanced heart failure. GI bleeding and pump thrombosis are major complications associated with LVAD therapy. Warfarin is the mainstay of anticoagulation for these patients. However, warfarin therapy can be challenging due to a narrow therapeutic window, drug/food interactions and need for frequent monitoring. The direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have been shown to be non-inferior or superior to warfarin for preventing stroke and reducing the risk of bleeding in patients with AF.
Source: Journal of Cardiac Failure - Category: Cardiology Authors: Source Type: research