Combining portable coagulometers with the Internet: A new model of warfarin anticoagulation in patients following mechanical heart valve replacement

Abstract

Heart valve replacement, as a safe and effective treatment for severe valvular heart disease, can significantly improve hemodynamics in patients. However, such patients then require lifelong anticoagulant therapy. Warfarin, a cheap and highly effective vitamin K antagonist, remains the major anticoagulant recommended for lifelong use following mechanical heart valve replacement. However, the effect of warfarin anticoagulant therapy is complicated by physiological differences among patients and non-compliance with treatment at different degrees. Effective management of warfarin therapy after heart valve replacement is currently an important issue. Portable coagulometers and the emergence of the Internet have provided new opportunities for long-term management of anticoagulation therapy, but the safety and affordability of this approach remain to be fully evaluated. This paper reviews recent progress on the use of portable coagulometers and the Internet in the management of warfarin anticoagulation therapy following mechanical heart valve replacement, which offers opportunities for reducing complications during postoperative anticoagulation and for facilitating patient compliance during follow-up.

Effective health management strategies for patients undergoing valve replacement: a bibliometric analysis of the current research status and future directions

“…Currently, researchers have shown interest in developing anticoagulant health management models using the internet and smart devices with a focus on self-management. Huang et al ( 14 ) proposed an anticoagulant management model with a portable coagulator and online medical communication, allowing patients to monitor the international normalized ratio at home and enabling online consultations. Zhu et al ( 44 ) suggested the development of a warfarin anticoagulation follow-up system after valve replacement surgery and compared the internet-based warfarin anticoagulation management model with the traditional warfarin management model.…”

“…The management of patients undergoing valve replacement includes hospital-based and self-management approaches, which aim to achieve optimal long-term outcomes through periodic monitoring and timely intervention ( 13 ). Various intelligent rehabilitation health management strategies, such as wearable monitoring devices, self-management applications, and Internet Plus, have emerged in recent years in medical care ( 14 – 16 ). Thus, gaining insight into the trends and identifying future opportunities in managing patients undergoing valve replacement may promote mobile intelligent health management, provide an integrated and innovative service mode, and achieve optimal health management.…”