Retrospective Analysis of International Normalized Ratio Management in Valve Replacement Patients to Reduce Thromboembolic and Bleeding Complications

• Published in: Biomedical and Biotechnology Research Journal Vol. 9; no. 3; pp. 274 - 280
• Main Authors: Jebasingh, Juno Angel, Rajaram, Ramkumar Soli, Rajah, Marutha Priya Sriskanda, Gopalakrishnan, Abirami, Kumar, Ashok Kumar Krishna, Malayandi, Jayanthi, Muthusamy, Suganthi
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: India Wolters Kluwer - Medknow 01.07.2025; Medknow Publications and Media Pvt. Ltd
• Edition: 2
• Subjects: Anticoagulants (Medicine); Blood; Blood clot; Cardiac patients; Care and treatment; Health aspects; Medical examination; Mortality; Original Article; Patient compliance; Prothrombin; Thrombin; Thrombosis; thromboembolic complications; mechanical heart valve; international normalized ratio management; Anticoagulation therapy; patient education
• ISSN: 2588-9834; 2588-9842
• DOI: 10.4103/bbrj.bbrj_203_25

Background: Effective management of the International Normalized Ratio (INR) is crucial for patients undergoing valve replacement surgery to minimize the risk of thromboembolic and bleeding complications. Patients with mechanical heart valve replacements are especially vulnerable to thrombus formation and associated risks, necessitating precise anticoagulation management. Methods: This retrospective study evaluated the effectiveness of INR monitoring protocols in patients with mechanical heart valve replacements. The primary objectives included assessing the role of routine prothrombin time (PT) testing, optimizing anticoagulant dosage adjustments, and examining the impact of structured patient education on adherence to anticoagulation therapy. INR levels, their correlation with adverse clinical events, and the outcomes of consistent monitoring practices were systematically analyzed. Results: Findings highlighted the critical importance of maintaining INR within optimal therapeutic thresholds, which substantially reduced the incidence of thromboembolic and hemorrhagic events. Routine PT/INR testing combined with timely anticoagulant adjustments proved effective in enhancing patient safety. Furthermore, advancements in anticoagulation therapies and emerging point-of-care monitoring technologies contributed to improved clinical outcomes. The implementation of structured patient education and follow-up systems significantly improved therapy adherence and reduced adverse events. Conclusion: Standardized postsurgical INR management protocols are essential to enhance the safety and effectiveness of anticoagulation therapy in valve replacement patients. Maintaining INR within target ranges lowers the risk of thromboembolic and bleeding complications, thereby improving overall patient outcomes and reducing mortality rates. Integrating patient education programs and robust follow-up systems further optimizes long-term anticoagulation management and empowers patients in their care.