Marfan Syndrome Pt on Heparin Drip

Nurses Medications

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I had a Pt w/ Marfan Syndrome yesterday on my medical/surgical unit, & he is on a heparin drip. Any of you smart folks know why? The only thing I can think of is to reduce the workload on the heart & aorta. Is this correct?

Thanks!

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Valvular issues? Mitral valve prolapse? Valve replacement in PSH? Unrelated AFib?

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Specializes in Critical Care.

It's likely due to another specific condition or history since anticoagulation (mainly chronic anticoagulation) should be avoided in patients with marfans syndrome due to their increased risk of aortic dissection. Those with marfans often require aortic valve/root replacement at some point which would require anticoagulation if a mechanical valve is used. My understanding is that they are also at higher risk of PE, so it could have been for that as well. You didn't know why they were on a heparin drip?

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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

While this patient has Marfans there is another piece of the diagnosis you missed.

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Heparin is an anticoagulant and has nothing to do with cardiac workload.

As mentioned above, anticoagulant use in people with Marfan Syndrome should be avoided due to risk of aortic dissection.

I agree with Esme, there is a piece of the puzzle missing here.

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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

How do you think it helps the hearts workload?

Apr 9 by payupalice

I had a Pt w/ Marfan Syndrome yesterday on my medical/surgical unit, & he is on a heparin drip. Any of you smart folks know why? The only thing I can think of is to reduce the workload on the heart & aorta. Is this correct?

Thanks!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
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