Oral Antiplatelet Therapy Research Articles

Indications for surgical evacuation of cerebellar intracerebral hemorrhage: consensus guidelines from the French Society of Neurosurgery (SFNC) and the French Society of Vascular Neurology (SFNV)

BackgroundCerebellar intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is associated with poor functional prognosis and high mortality. Surgical evacuation has been proposed to improve outcome. The purpose of this review was to determine the benefit of surgical evacuation of cerebellar ICH and to establish guidelines for when it should be performed. MethodThe writing committee comprised 9 members of the SFNV and the SFNC. Recommendations were established based on a literature review using the PICO questions. The American Heart Association (AHA) classification was used to define recommendation level. In case of insufficient evidence, expert opinions were provided. ResultsLevels of evidence were low to moderate, precluding definitive recommendations. Based on available data, surgical hematoma evacuation is not recommended to improve functional outcome (Class III; Level B NR). However, based on subgroup analysis, surgical evacuation may be considered in strictly selected patients (Class IIb; Level C-EO): hematoma volume 15−25 cm3, GCS 6-10, and no oral anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy. Moreover, surgical evacuation is recommended to decrease risk of death (Class IIa; Level B NR) in patients with a hematoma volume >15 cm3 and GCS score <10. ConclusionThese guidelines were based on observational studies, limiting the level of evidence. However, except for strictly selected patients, surgical evacuation of cerebellar ICH was not associated with improved functional outcome, limiting indications. Data from RCTs are needed in this field.

Impact of Anticoagulation in Acquired Hemophilia a

Background Acquired Hemophilia A (AHA) is a rare autoimmune disorder that occurs due to the development of autoantibodies against factor VIII which leads to inhibition of the coagulation cascade and results in a propensity for hemorrhage. The estimated incidence is approximately 1.5 per million per year. It carries an exceptionally high morbidity and mortality rate, with severe or life-threatening hemorrhagic events occurring in 70-90% of cases, with 5-10% of these cases resulting in mortality. Several underlying conditions are associated with AHA, including autoimmune disorders, obstetrical and oncologic disease, and various medications, such as direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) and antiplatelet therapy (APT), both of whose usage has increased significantly over the past decade. Objectives We aimed to evaluate whether patients prescribed an antiplatelet or anticoagulant at the time of diagnosis of AHA experienced more severe bleeding and worse clinical outcomes compared to those with AHA not prescribed an antiplatelet or anticoagulant. Methods This is a single-center retrospective study examining 16 individuals with AHA from April 2013 to April 2023. These individuals were categorized by the presence or absence of a prescribed anticoagulant and then further divided into class of anticoagulant (APT, DOAC or other oral anticoagulant (OAC), or exposure to both). Primary end points included the number of blood product transfusions received, hospital length of stay (LOS), need for intervention or procedure, and degree of hemoglobin (Hgb) drop from baseline. Continuous variables were compared using t-test or Wilcoxon rank-sum test while categorical variables were compared using the chi-square test or Fisher's exact test. Results Of the 16 individuals in our cohort, 9 were without prior exposure to anticoagulation or antiplatelet agents before the diagnosis of AHA while 7 were prescribed either an anticoagulant, antiplatelet agent, or both. Of those taking one of these classes of medications, 2 were prescribed OACs, 3 were prescribed APTs, and 2 were prescribed both classes. The mean baseline Hgb was similar in both groups, 12.84 for the non-exposed group and 12.92 for the exposed group, while mean Hgb at diagnosis was 9.55 and 8.81 for the non-exposed group and exposed group respectively (p-value 0.638). Median factor VIII titer inhibitors at diagnosis were 3.30 and 38.10 (p-value 0.124) for non-exposed and exposed groups, respectively. Mean hospitalization rates for non-exposed individuals versus exposed individuals were 5.0 and 7.0 (p-value 2.00) with a mean hospital LOS of 10.20 and 12.57 days (p-value 0.624) in the non-exposed and exposed group, respectively. The mean number of packed red blood cell (pRBC) transfusions needed during the index hospitalization was 1.6 and 3.0 (p-value 0.333) in the non-exposed group and exposed group respectively while the mean number of platelet transfusions were 4 and 6 in the non-exposed and exposed groups respectively. There was a statistically significant increase in intramuscular bleeding with a mean of 1.0 and 5.0 (p-value 0.035) in the non-exposed and exposed groups respectively. In each group there was only one individual who required procedural intervention. There was one death due to hemorrhage which occurred in the exposed group (p-value 0.467). Conclusions The increased rates of intramuscular bleeding in patients exposed to prior anticoagulation was statistically significant. Intramuscular hemorrhage is associated with increased morbidity due to the risk for compartment syndrome requiring surgical intervention. Our data demonstrates a trend towards the need for a longer hospitalization and more pRBC transfusions in individuals with prior exposure though notably, there is not an apparent increased trend for an increased rate of platelet transfusions. There is also a trend towards significance for higher factor VIII titer inhibitor levels in patients on anticoagulation at the time of diagnosis. While this study is limited in power by the sample size, there are no comparable studies to date examining the impact of anticoagulation on individuals with AHA. With the increasing rates of anticoagulation therapy, further investigation is needed on the impact of therapeutic anticoagulant or antiplatelet use prior to the diagnosis of AHA and subsequent clinical outcomes.

Abstract 056: Patterns of Care in the Management of Intracranial Atherosclerosis‐related Large Vessel Occlusion–the RESCUE‐LVO survey

Introduction Intracranial atherosclerosis‐related large vessel occlusion (ICAS‐LVO) is a common cause of failed mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) [1]. Treatment of ICAS‐LVO with rescue stenting and/or angioplasty has shown promising outcomes, but diagnosing ICAS‐LVO during MT can be challenging [2, 3]. There are uncertainties regarding optimal approaches, techniques, and timing for treating ICAS‐LVO. To understand current practice patterns and address these uncertainties, we conducted a survey among neurointerventional practitioners experienced in ICAS‐LVO management during MT. Methods We conducted an international online survey of neurointerventionalist members of the Society of Neurointerventional Surgery (SNIS) and the Society of Vascular and Interventional Neurology (SVIN). The 28‐question poll evaluated the preferences on diagnosis, treatment, and endovascular approach to ICAS‐LVO. Results 168 individual survey responses were obtained from practicing neurointerventional physicians. Overall, 40.6% reported an incidence of 6–10% of ICAS‐LVO during MT. Most neurointerventionalists (91%) diagnose ICAS‐LVO after a continued or recurrent occlusion or by the presence of fixed focal stenosis (FFS) after multiple MT attempts. Most respondents (86%) preferred acute treatment of ICAS‐LVO with rescue stenting (RS) +/‐ angioplasty. However, in patients who achieved recanalization with a severe FFS, the majority (44%) recommended maximal medical management only. The preferred medication during acute RS was intravenous antiplatelet therapy (69%), and after acute RS was dual oral antiplatelet therapy (58%). Fear of hemorrhagic complications (70%) was the most compelling reason not to perform RS +/‐ angioplasty. Twenty‐five percent of respondents were hesitant to randomize patients to acute RS versus medical therapy in a future randomized trial because of the lack of sensitive and specific biomarkers to diagnose ICAS‐LVO before MT treatment. Conclusion Our survey highlights the significant variability and uncertainty in the diagnosis and management of ICAS‐LVO during MT among neurointerventional practitioners. There is no equipoise regarding the optimal treatment strategy, and the fear of hemorrhagic complications associated with antithrombotic medications contributes to the variation in practice. Our survey underscores the need for future research and randomized clinical trials to address the uncertainties in the management of ICAS‐LVO during MT. Improved imaging biomarkers and consensus guidelines are essential to guide clinical decision‐making and optimize patient outcomes in this challenging population of AIS patients.

Single-Center Outcomes of WATCHMAN™ Implantation with Comparison to Oral Anticoagulant and Dual Antiplatelet Therapy.

Background The WATCHMAN™ device is aFood and Drug Administration(FDA)-approved device that reduces the risk of stroke from atrial fibrillation (AF) in those who have a contraindication to taking oral anticoagulation. A key aspect of this device implantation is the choice of medical therapy in the months after device implantation with Vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (OAC) being the mainstay of therapy but dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) poses as a potential alternative to patients who have a contraindication to OAC use. Methods Our single-center study retroactively followed 150 patients post-WATCHMAN™ implantation and evaluated outcomes at 12 months post-implantation in two cohorts, those treated with OAC or DAPT. Our results were obtained via chart review of a single-center electronic medical records system. Results In our study, 67.33% of study patients were males and 49.33% were on OAC compared to 36.00% that were on DAPT. Ten patients were not able to undergo device implantation. With this analysis, we found similarly low rates of complications such as stroke and device-associated thrombosis (DAT) in both groups. Our DAPT cohort did have a higher number of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding but this was not significant in our analysis. Discussion Our study compares to larger trials that show similar outcomes between OAC and DAPT post-implantation of the WATCHMAN™ device. The increased number of GI bleeding in our DAPT cohort could be the result of the underlying advanced age and comorbidity of that patient cohort. Conclusion Our results suggest that DAPT is a safe alternative to OAC for patients undergoing WATCHMAN™ implantation.

Safety of Intravenous Cangrelor Versus Dual Oral Antiplatelet Loading Therapy in Endovascular Treatment of Tandem Lesions: An Observational Cohort Study

Background Procedural intravenous cangrelor has been proposed as an effective platelet inhibition strategy for stenting in acute ischemic stroke. We aimed to compare the safety profile of low‐dose intravenous cangrelor versus dual oral antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) loading in patients with acute cervical tandem lesions. Methods We retrospectively identified cases from an international multicenter cohort who underwent intraprocedural administration of intravenous cangrelor (15 μg/kg followed by an infusion of 2 μg/kg per min) or DAPT loading during acute tandem lesions intervention. Safety outcomes included rates of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, parenchymal hematoma type 2, petechial hemorrhage, and in‐stent thrombosis. Inverse probability of treatment weighting matching was used to reduce confounding. Results From 691 patients, we included 195 patients, 30 of whom received intravenous cangrelor and 165 DAPT. The DAPT regimens were aspirin+clopidogrel (93.3%) or aspirin+ticagrelor (6.6%). After inverse probability of treatment weighting, the patients treated with cangrelor were not at greater odds of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (odds ratio [OR], 1.30 [95% CI, 0.09–17.3]; P =0.837), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage–parenchymal hematoma type 2 (OR, 0.54 [95% CI, 0.05–4.98]; P =0.589), or petechial hemorrhage (OR, 1.11 [95% CI, 0.38–3.28]; P =0.836). Similarly, the rate of in‐stent thrombosis was not significantly different between the 2 groups (1.8% versus 0%; P =0.911). Conclusion Cangrelor at the half dose of the myocardial infarction protocol showed a similar safety profile compared with the commonly used DAPT loading protocols in patients with acute tandem lesions. Further studies with larger samples are warranted to elucidate the safety of antiplatelet therapy in tandem lesions.

Atrial fibrillation and ischemic heart disease: (un)solved therapeutic dilemma?

Concomitant presence of atrial fibrillation and coronary artery disease requiring percutaneous coronary intervention is a frequent occurrence. The choice of optimal antithrombotic therapy, in this context, is still challenging. To offer the best protection both in terms of stroke and stent thrombosis, triple therapy with oral anticoagulation and dual antiplatelet therapy would be required. Several drug combinations have been tested in recent years, including direct oral anticoagulants, with the aim of balancing ischemic and bleeding risk. Both pharmacokinetic aspects of the molecules and patient's characteristics should be analyzed in choosing oral anticoagulation. Then, as suggested by guidelines, triple therapy should start with a seven-day duration and the aim to prolong to thirty days in high thrombotic risk patients. Dual therapy should follow to reach twelve months after coronary intervention. Even not fully discussed by the guidelines, in order to balance ischemic and bleeding risk it should also be considered: 1) integrated assessment of coronary artery disease and procedural complexity of coronary intervention; 2) appropriateness to maintain the anticoagulant drug dosage indicated in technical data sheet; the lack of data on the suspension of antiplatelet drugs one year after percutaneous intervention; 3) the possibility of combination therapy with ticagrelor; and 4) the need to treat the occurrence of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation during acute coronary syndrome. With data provided clinician should pursue a therapy as personalized as possible, both in terms of drug choice and treatment duration, in order to balance ischemic and bleeding risk.

Two Approaches to Triple Antithrombotic Therapy in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome and Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation Treated with Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: Which Is More Efficient and Safer?

Patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and atrial fibrillation (AF) treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are at high risk of bleeding and thromboembolic events. Thus, optimal treatment strategies in this challenging subset have been controversial. Herein, we aim to investigate different triple antithrombotic treatment (TAT) strategies in patients with ACS and AF after PCI. This was a retrospective, single-center study based on all consecutive patients with the diagnosis of ACS and AF treated with vitamin K antagonists (VKA) or non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOAC) plus dual antiplatelet therapy using a P2Y12 inhibitor (clopidogrel) and aspirin (for 1 to 3 months) and observed for 12 months for major adverse cardiac events (MACE) and major or clinically relevant non-major bleeding incidents. MACE occurred in 26.6% of patients treated with the VKA and 30.9% with NOAC (p = 0.659). Bleeding occurred in 7.8% of patients treated with VKA and 7.4% with NOAC (ns). Among patients with ACS and AF who had undergone PCI, there was no significant difference in the risk of bleeding and ischemic events among those who received TAT with NOAC and VKA.

The continuation of oral anticoagulation and antiplatelet therapy for dento-alveolar surgery: a service evaluation.

Background Patients taking oral anticoagulants (OACs) and oral antiplatelets (OAPs) have a risk of post-operative bleeding when dental extractions are required. Guidance exists to assist dental practitioners on how best to clinically manage these patients, but this is based upon low-quality evidence. The current service evaluation provides real world clinical data when these drugs are not discontinued for oral surgery procedures.Materials and methods All OACs and OAPs were continued and patients requiring dental extractions had local haemostatic measures (local anaesthesia with adrenaline, socket packing with haemostat and resorbable sutures). All patients were offered a follow-up via a telephone clinic service after surgery to assess any post-operative bleeding.Results A total of 439 patients underwent 513 surgical episodes, equating to 1,001 dental extractions. Overall, 412 (95.9%) patients reported no post-operative bleeding complications. A total of 18 (4.1%) patients reported post-operative bleeding requiring further intervention. All but two patients were managed with local haemostatic measures, and no patient required hospital admission. For the single novel OAC cohort of patients, 8/185 (4.3%) procedures had post-operative bleeding.Conclusion This current service evaluation highlights that the risk of significant or life-threatening bleeding following dental extraction when OACs or OAPs are continued remains rare.

Perioperative Management of Oral Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Therapy in Hand and Wrist Surgery.

There is wide variability in the management of patients on antithrombotic therapy requiring surgery of the hand and wrist. There are no specific guidelines regarding whether to temporarily cease or continue oral anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents. Discontinuation of these medications before surgery can lead to perioperative thromboembolic or ischemic events. On the other hand, continuation can lead to intraoperative or postoperative bleeding complications. This review discusses various anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents with special considerations for their management, analyzes the current literature, summarizes current recommendations, and provides direction for additional research.

Analysis of post-extraction bleeding in patients taking antithrombotic therapy using data from the longevity improvement and fair evidence study.

Several studies have investigated post-extraction bleeding in patients on antithrombotic therapy, but most included a small sample size. This study aimed to analyse post-extraction bleeding in patients on antithrombotic therapy using data from a large database. Claims data of National Health Insurance and Late-Stage Elderly Healthcare System enrollees who underwent tooth extraction between October 2014 and March 2019 (n = 107 767) in a large multiregional cohort study (Longevity Improvement and Fair Evidence study) were included. Antithrombotic therapy was determined based on the drug codes used at the time of tooth extraction (classified into six groups: no antithrombotic, single antiplatelet, dual antiplatelet, Direct Oral Anticoagulant, warfarin and combined antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapies). The outcome was defined as the presence of "post-extraction bleeding" as a receipt disease name in the same month as tooth extraction. To examine the association between antithrombotic therapy and post-extraction bleeding in detail, multiple logistic regression analysis was performed with post-extraction bleeding as the objective variable; each antithrombotic therapy as the explanatory variable; and age, sex and comorbidities as adjustment variables. Antithrombotic therapy was administered in 14 343 patients (13.3%), and post-extraction bleeding was observed in 419 patients (0.4%). The rate of post-extraction bleeding was significantly lower in the no antithrombotic therapy and single antiplatelet groups than that in the other groups (odds ratio: 2.00-9.02). The frequency of post-extraction bleeding is high in patients on anticoagulation or dual antithrombotic therapy. Therefore, careful preparation before extraction is necessary in these patients.

A Curious Case of Acute STEMI in a Young Patient; Things are Not Always What They Seem

BACKGROUND: Acute myocardial infarction (MI) is a rare occurrence in patients under 40 years of age without positive family history for coronary artery disease (CAD). Genetic conditions as inherited thrombophilia can lead to a hypercoagulable state, resulting in thromboembolic events and arterial thrombosis. CASE SUMMARY: We present a case of a 35-year-old male patient who presented to the emergency room with an inferior MI after a strenuous cycling exercise. An urgent coronary angiography showed thrombotic formations in the right coronary artery without atherosclerotic plaques. Plain old balloon angioplasty and thrombus aspiration were performed, which was followed by GP IIb/IIIa inhibitor infusion and unfractionated heparin for 24 h. From past medical history, the patient had COVID-19 like symptoms 20 days before the event and had his first dose of anti- COVID vaccine 2 weeks prior. After additional testing, molecular genetic analysis results revealed the patient to be heterozygous for factor V Leiden (FVL) and homozygous for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T gene mutation. The patient was discharged on direct oral anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapy. After 1-year follow-up, he had no symptoms or recurrent cardiovascular events. CONCLUSION: Inherited thrombophilia is а significant risk factor for CAD and performing genetic testing in younger patients with a cardiovascular event and plays an important role for adequate treatment and prophylaxis from recurrent complications. The use of oral anticoagulation for prophylaxis is shown to be effective in these patients. However, further studies are needed to prove their exact role and duration of treatment.

Rescue therapy after thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion due to underlying atherosclerosis: review of literature.

In this review article, we summarized the current advances in rescue management for reperfusion therapy of acute ischemic stroke from large vessel occlusion due to underlying intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS). It is estimated that 24-47% of patients with acute vertebrobasilar artery occlusion have underlying ICAS and superimposed in situ thrombosis. These patients have been found to have longer procedure times, lower recanalization rates, higher rates of reocclusion and lower rates of favorable outcomes than patients with embolic occlusion. Here, we discuss the most recent literature regarding the use of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors, angioplasty alone, or angioplasty with stenting for rescue therapy in the setting of failed recanalization or instant/imminent reocclusion during thrombectomy. We also present a case of rescue therapy post intravenous tPA and thrombectomy with intra-arterial tirofiban and balloon angioplasty followed by oral dual antiplatelet therapy in a patient with dominant vertebral artery occlusion due to ICAS. Based on the available literature data, we conclude that glycoprotein IIb/IIIa is a reasonably safe and effective rescue therapy for patients who have had a failed thrombectomy or have residual severe intracranial stenosis. Balloon angioplasty and/or stenting may be helpful as a rescue treatment for patients who have had a failed thrombectomy or are at risk of reocclusion. The effectiveness of immediate stenting for residual stenosis after successful thrombectomy is still uncertain. Rescue therapy does not appear to increase the risk of sICH. Randomized controlled trials are warranted to prove the efficacy of rescue therapy.

Comparison of clinical outcomes with cangrelor plus aspirin versus oral dual antiplatelet therapy in patients supported with venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

Patients with refractory cardiogenic shock from an acute myocardial infarction may receive percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and require the use of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO). The purpose of this study was to compare bleeding and thrombotic events in patients treated with cangrelor plus aspirin versus oral dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) while supported with VA-ECMO. We conducted a retrospective review of patients who received PCI, were supported with VA-ECMO, and were treated with either cangrelor plus aspirin or oral DAPT from February 2016 through May 2021 at Allegheny General Hospital. The primary objective was the incidence of major bleeding, defined as Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC) type 3 or greater. The incidence of thrombotic events was a secondary objective. Thirty-seven patients were included, 19 in the cangrelor plus aspirin group, and 18 in the oral DAPT group. All the patients in the cangrelor group received a dose of 0.75 mcg/kg/min. Major bleeding occurred in 7 patients (36.8%) in the cangrelor group compared to 7 patients (38.9%) in the oral DAPT group (p = 0.90). No patient developed stent thrombosis. Two patients (10.5%) in the cangrelor group had a thrombotic event versus 3 patients (16.7%) in the oral DAPT group (p = 0.66). Bleeding and thrombotic events were comparable between patients receiving cangrelor plus aspirin versus oral DAPT while on VA-ECMO.

Rescue of immediate post-transcarotid artery revascularization carotid stent thrombosis due to clopidogrel resistance using flow-reversal and aspiration thrombectomy

An 84-year-old patient developed immediate thrombosis of his carotid stent in recovery after transcarotid artery revascularization. In the present report, the technical details about intraoperative management for neurovascular rescue using the transcarotid artery revascularization flow-reversal system are described. The patient was determined to have clopidogrel resistance. Intraoperative medical management is also discussed. The current alternative intravenous and oral antiplatelet therapies such as glycoprotein IIb/IIIa and P2Y12 inhibitors are explored. The debate regarding preoperative antiplatelet resistance testing remains ambiguous, and increasing studies have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of alternatives to clopidogrel. Despite an unpredictable and devastating complication, the patient's outcome was successful using contemporary strategies.

Management of oral anticoagulant therapy after intracranial hemorrhage in patients with atrial fibrillation.

Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is considered a potentially severe complication of oral anticoagulants (OACs) and antiplatelet therapy (APT). Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who survived ICH present both an increased ischemic and bleeding risk. Due to its lethality, initiating or reinitiating OACs in ICH survivors with AF is challenging. Since ICH recurrence may be life-threatening, patients who experience an ICH are often not treated with OACs, and thus remain at a higher risk of thromboembolic events. It is worthy of mention that subjects with a recent ICH and AF have been scarcely enrolled in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on ischemic stroke risk management in AF. Nevertheless, in observational studies, stroke incidence and mortality of patients with AF who survived ICH had been shown to be significantly reduced among those treated with OACs. However, the risk of hemorrhagic events, including recurrent ICH, was not necessarily increased, especially in patients with post-traumatic ICH. The optimal timing of anticoagulation initiation or restarting after an ICH in AF patients is also largely debated. Finally, the left atrial appendage occlusion option should be evaluated in AF patients with a very high risk of recurrent ICH. Overall, an interdisciplinary unit consisting of cardiologists, neurologists, neuroradiologists, neurosurgeons, patients, and their families should be involved in management decisions. According to available evidence, this review outlines the most appropriate anticoagulation strategies after an ICH that should be adopted to treat this neglected subset of patients.

PO-03-192 INTRA-DEVICE LEAKS ON POST LEFT ATRIAL APPENDAGE OCCLUDER FOLLOW UP TOMOGRAPHIC IMAGING – TRUE LEAK OR MERE INCOMPLETE ENDOTHELIALIZATION

Patient undergoing Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) needs to be kept on oral anticoagulant (OAC) or dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) because of the time required for endothelialization of the LAAC device. Post LAAC follow-up usually is usually performed with either a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) or cardiac computed tomography (CCTA) at 45 days, 6 months and 12 months to ensure complete closure and endothelialization of the LAA. Contrast flow (CF) behind the LAAC device on CCTA could be indicative of either a peri-device leak (PDL) or intra-device leak due to incomplete endothelialization. Often the contrast flow into the LAA is described as a leak with implications to continued OAC. This study aims to evaluate the utility of LAA-CF on CCTA scan to predict lack of endothelialization after endocardial LAA closure and its association with peri-device leaks (PDLs). Consecutive patients who underwent LAAC at our center from June 2021 to September 2021 and had follow up CCTA at 45 days, 6 months and 12 months were included in the study. Patients who were follow up with TEE were excluded. Rate of LAA-CF was calculated. LAA-CF was defined as radiodensity > 100 HU (Hounsfield units) of the LAA separated from the device, or contrast opacification ≥ 25% of the left atrium with the presence of any LAA opacification compared with the pre-LAAC cardiac CT. Of 45 patients, 62% had Watchman FLX (n= 28) and 38% had Amplatzer Amulet (n=17) implantation. Mean age of the cohort was 74.6 + 9.3 years and 72% were males. At 45 day follow up CCTA, 40% (n=18) had LAA-CF of which 56% (n=10) had PDL whereas 44% (n=8) had no PDL. On 6 month follow up LAA-CF persisted in 44% (n=8/18) with 62.5% (n=5/8) having PDL. However, at 12 months LAA-CF persisted in only one patient who had a leak of 7 mm (Table). There were no systemic thromboembolic events. Although numbers were small Amulet had higher LAA-CF than Watchman FLX probably related to large outer disc surface area. Delayed LAA-CF is common after LAAO and is a reflection of poor endothelialization than a true PDL. It has no real long term clinical implications.

OA43 Peri-procedural management and incidence of bleeding events following musculoskeletal injections and aspirations in people on anticoagulation and antiplatelet therapy

Abstract Background/Aims Corticosteroid injections and aspirations are common interventions for managing musculoskeletal conditions and inflammatory arthritis. However, there remains limited safety evidence to support safe practice for injection decisions in people on anticoagulant therapy, particularly direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) medications regarding incidence of bleeding events or complications. Although there is increasing evidence for warfarin continuation, there is considerable variation in published guidance, manufacturer recommendations and specialty approaches to peri-procedural management of DOACs. This study reports on peri-procedural practice regarding continuation or discontinuation, bleeding events and complication rates in people on anticoagulant and antiplatelet medication undergoing musculoskeletal injections. Methods A prospective observational study was undertaken (October 2018- December 2020) using weekly electronic database searches to identify musculoskeletal injection and aspiration procedures undertaken in orthopaedics, rheumatology and radiology in two large NHS providers. Reply-paid questionnaires were sent to all consecutive adults within two weeks of procedures. Information was collected on bleeding events/complications, anticoagulant/antiplatelet use, products, doses, indications, INR levels and checking, discontinuation/re-initiation, comorbidities, and other medications. Concurrent electronic searches were also undertaken for emergency attendance or admissions within 30 days following procedures to identify unreported serious bleeding events or complications. Results Electronic searching identified 5,080 musculoskeletal procedures with 1,338 (26.3%) respondents (ages 20-99 years) returning questionnaires. 356 received &amp;gt;1 procedure over the timeframe and 49 bilateral procedures. There were 45 reports of bleeding events and all non-clinically significant localised bruising of the skin: 25/1106 (0.2%) without anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy; 20/232 (8.6%) with anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapy, occurring only with continued medications. Incidences included: warfarin with unknown INR levels (n= 2/36, 5.5%); DOACs (n=9/72, 12.5%) [apixaban (5/24, 21%), rivaroxaban (4/45, 8.8%)]; antiplatelets [clopidogrel (4/28, 14.2%), clopidogrel &amp; NSAID (1/4, 25%), aspirin (1/72, 1.3%), aspirin &amp; NSAID (2/11, 18.1%), NSAID (1/3, 33.3%)]. Localised bruising was more common with DOAC continuation, aspirin with NSAID use, clopidogrel use and older age. Only 3/72 respondents on DOACs reported instructions to interrupt medications (orthopaedics). There were no serious bleeding or thromboembolic events identified through electronic searches for any recipient within 30 days following procedures. Conclusion This observational study found no significant bleeding events resulting from musculoskeletal injections or aspirations with continuation of warfarin (INR &amp;lt; 3.80), direct oral anticoagulant use, antiplatelet or combination therapy. The only consequence reported was some occurrence of localised bruising, also reported without medication use. It was not universal practice to determine INR levels prior to procedures with warfarin use and common practice to continue DOACs and antiplatelet medications. This research adds to evidence that musculoskeletal injections and aspirations appear to be very low risk procedures for bleeding complications with continuation of anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapy. Further research on intra-articular or intra-tissue iatrogenic consequences with anticoagulant/antiplatelet use is needed to add to procedural risk/benefit evaluations. Disclosure C. McCrum: Grants/research support; Funding grant to provide professional education workshops-Novartis, Janssen. S. Grainger: None.

Effectiveness of dual antiplatelet de-escalation therapy on the prognosis of patients with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention

AimTo investigate the effectiveness of de-escalation of ticagrelor (from ticagrelor 90 mg to clopidogrel 75 mg or ticagrelor 60 mg) on the prognosis of patients with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) after 3 months of oral dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT).MethodsFrom March 2017 to August 2021, 1056 patients with STEMI in a single centre, through retrospective investigation and analysis, were divided into intensive (ticagrelor 90 mg), standard (clopidogrel 75 mg after PCI) and de-escalation groups (clopidogrel 75 mg or ticagrelor 60 mg after 3 months of treatment with 90 mg ticagrelor) based on the type and dose of P2Y12 inhibitor 3 months after PCI, and the patients had a ≥ 12-month history of oral DAPT. The primary end point was major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) during the 12-month follow-up period, including composite end points of cardiac death, myocardial infarction, ischaemia-driven revascularization and stroke. The major safety endpoint was bleeding events.ResultsThe results showed that during the follow-up period, there was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of MACCEs between the intensive and de-escalation groups (P > 0.05). The incidence of MACCEs in the standard treatment group was higher than that in the intensive treatment group (P = 0.014), but the incidence of bleeding events in the de-escalation group was significantly lower than that in the standard group (9.3% vs. 18.4%, χ²=7.191, P = 0.027). The Cox regression analysis showed that increases in haemoglobin (HGB) (HR = 0.986) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (HR = 0.983) could reduce the incidence of MACCEs, while old myocardial infarction (OMI) (P = 0.023) and hypertension (P = 0.013) were independent predictors of MACCEs.ConclusionFor STEMI patients undergoing PCI, the de-escalation scheme of ticagrelor to clopidogrel 75 mg or ticagrelor 60 mg at 3 months after PCI was related to the reduction of bleeding events, especially minor bleeding events, without an increase in ischaemic events.

Cardiovascular computed tomography in the evaluation of post-TAVI prosthesis dysfunction: the thin line between hypo attenuated leaflet thickening and clinical valve thrombosis.

It is accepted that hypo attenuated leaflet thickening (HALT) can be detected in 12% and 32% of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) patients on oral anticoagulation or dual antiplatelet therapy at 3 months, respectively.1 Clinically relevant TAVI thrombosis is rare, with up to 1% incidence.2 We present the case of an 86-year-old male with a history of ischemic cardiomyopathy, atrial fibrillation (on apixaban 5 mg BID), and 4 months post-TAVI (Sapien 3–29 mm) who presented to the Emergency Department with worsening dyspnea and elevated cardiac biomarkers: HS-Tn (1689 ng/L) and NT-proBNP (>5000 pg/mL). Echocardiogram showed new severe systolic dysfunction (left ventricular EF = 30%) and elevated gradients (compared to the basal post-TAVI study) with limited visualization of the valve (central figure, Panels A and B). He underwent invasive coronary angiography, which showed no coronary artery disease progression as to explain the clinical changes. Given the rapidly worsening clinical status, a cardiovascular computed tomography (CCT) was ordered over transesophageal echocardiogram for better evaluation. The CCT was acquired using retrospective gating without ECG dose modulation (IQon, Philips) for high-quality full-cycle images (Panels C–F). There was severe symmetrical tri-leaflet thickening with sparing of the distal tips (meniscal shape), classically described in HALT.3 The Hounsfield units were more consistent with thrombus (<100 HU) (Panel C), and significantly reduced tri-leaflet motion was also noted on functional images (see Supplementary data online, Video S1). Despite being treated with i.v. heparin and guideline-directed medical therapy for HFrEF, the patient developed refractory cardiogenic shock and expired. The best antithrombotic regimen for patients undergoing TAVI remains controversial.4 Bioprosthetic valve thrombosis involves a spectrum with different grades of clinical manifestation. The CCT is paramount for establishing the etiology of the dysfunction and providing prognostic information for patient management.5

Clot Management in Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: Fighting Your Enemy

Clot is often the enemy during primary percutaneous coronary intervention. Taking inspiration from the ancient wisdom of fighting a war, an interventionist should first look into the strength of the enemy, i.e. assess the thrombus burden, by both Thrombolysis in MI thrombus grade and angiographic features. This is to be followed by choosing the appropriate strategy: to attack – aspiration and mechanical thrombectomy; to surround – pharmacological therapy, including oral and parenteral antiplatelet therapy and intracoronary thrombolytic therapy; to avoid – stenting strategies including direct stenting and deferred stenting; to battle – stenting under a distal protection device or stenting across local obstructive thrombus; or to flee – to move from percutaneous coronary intervention to optimal antithrombotic therapy and circulatory support when flow fails to be regained. Of note, most of these strategies have not been demonstrated to be beneficial on routine use. The key remains to adopt different strategies selectively and appropriately in different scenarios.