What is the goal range when monitoring INR for LVAD patients?

For patients with a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD), the primary goal of anticoagulation is to prevent thromboembolic complications, such as stroke, while reducing the risk of bleeding. The ideal International Normalized Ratio (INR) range for LVAD patients is typically set between 2.0 and 3.0.

This range balances the need for effective anticoagulation with the potential risks associated with higher levels of INR, which can increase the likelihood of bleeding. Maintaining the INR within this goal range allows for sufficient anticoagulation to prevent clots that could lead to vascular complications and ensures patient safety by avoiding overly aggressive anticoagulation that could result in adverse events.

The other ranges, either too low or too high, do not provide adequate protection against clots for LVAD patients, and hence do not reflect the standard clinical guidelines for their care.