Effects of combined therapy of clopidogrel and aspirin in preventing thrombus formation on mechanical heart valves in an ex vivo rabbit model.

Abstract Background: The aim of our study was to investigate the efficacy of the combination of clopidogrel and aspirin in the prevention of thrombus formation on artificial heart valves in an experimental rabbit model as compared to anticoagulation with warfarin. Methods: Studies were performed after oral administration of clopidogrel and aspirin in group I (n=9) for 5 days, after 5±2 days treatment with warfarin in group II (n=9) and without medication in group III (n=9). Leaflets from Sulzer Carbomedics bileaflet valves were placed in a flow chamber. The flow chamber was filled with blood in a continuous circulation between the carotid artery and the jugular vein. Results: In group III, …