Cost analysis of "bridging therapy" with low-molecular-weight heparin versus unfractionated heparin during temporary interruption of chronic anticoagulation

Am J Cardiol. 2004 Feb 15;93(4):509-11. doi: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2003.10.060.

Abstract

Patients on long-term anticoagulation who require interruption of therapy for surgery may receive "bridging therapy" with continuous-infusion unfractionated heparin or low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH). We estimated the costs of bridging therapy with: (1) LMWH self-administered at home, (2) LMWH administered by a nurse to patients at home, and (3) continuous-infusion unfractionated heparin in the hospital. For surgeries requiring an overnight stay, bridging costs are estimated to be 672, 933, and 3,816 US dollars, respectively, for each of these strategies.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Ambulatory Care / economics
  • Anticoagulants / administration & dosage
  • Anticoagulants / economics*
  • Costs and Cost Analysis
  • Heparin / administration & dosage
  • Heparin / analogs & derivatives*
  • Heparin / economics*
  • Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight / administration & dosage
  • Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight / economics*
  • Hospital Costs
  • Humans
  • Surgical Procedures, Operative

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight
  • Heparin