Abstract

Introduction: Antiplatelet agents are commonly used after endovascular repair of ruptured aneurysms in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Recent evidence suggests post-treatment antiplatelets may reduce risk of delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) and worse outcome. We sought to determine potential risks and benefits of antiplatelets in our patients’ population Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients with aneurysmal SAH who were admitted to an academic referral center from 2016 to 2021. We used multivariable logistic regression analysis, propensity score matching and multiple linear regression to test the association of antiplatelets use and functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale at 3 months), DCI, any intracranial hemorrhagic complications including EVD tract hemorrhage and ICU length of stay (continuous variable). Results: Of the confirmed aneurysmal SAH patients (n=315), mean age was 57 years (SD 13.6) and majority of patients were female (62%) and white (70%). Thirty-nine percent of patients received antiplatelets (26% single agent; 13% dual agents) with no differences in demographics. Of the patients in the cohort, 85% received endovascular treatments (including 59% coil, 12% pipeline and stent assisted coil, 14 other endovascular treatments) and 15% underwent surgical clipping. Antiplatelets were used more in aneurysms originating from posterior circulation compared to anterior circulation (54% vs 35%, p=0.012). There was no difference in functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale at 3 months), DCI, or any intracranial hemorrhagic complications including EVD tract hemorrhage. ICU length of stay was longer in patients who received antiplatelets (3.32 additional days, 95% CI 0.4-6.3; p=0.02) and this association was independent of Hunt and Hess grades, modified Fisher scales, aneurysm treatment modality, age, comorbidities, and hospital complications. Conclusion: Use of antiplatelets may not reduce risk of DCI and worse outcome but can be associated with longer ICU length of stay. Further studies are required to identify appropriate candidates who may benefit from antiplatelets.

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