From the HeartWire there was further follow-up of prior data looking at Pradaxa (dabigatran) versus Coumadin (warfarin) in mechanical heart valve patients. It would appear for now at least that the traditional treatment of warfarin is still in the driver’s seat in this situation.
It is the investigator’s theory that the anti-thrombin mechanism of action with dabigatran doesn’t appear to be as effective in mechanical valve replacement versus the clotting factors inhibition mechanism of warfarin. The implications for the other newer anticoagulant medications suggest warfarin may maintain the drug of choice status in this situation.