Editor's Choice - European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) 2023 Clinical Practice Guidelines on Antithrombotic Therapy for Vascular Diseases

Antithrombotic treatment following revascularization for chronic limb-threatening ischaemia: a scientific statement of the European Society of Cardiology Working Group on Aorta and Peripheral Vascular Diseases and the European Society of Cardiology Working Group on Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy

Chronic limb-threatening ischaemia (CLTI) is defined as ischaemic rest pain, or non-healing ulceration, requiring endovascular or surgical lower limb revascularization (LLR). Lower limb revascularization in CLTI entails a high risk of major adverse limb events (MALE) and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). This scientific statement addresses this risk based on a systematic review. A structured literature search was performed, and articles were independently evaluated by two investigators. In total, 1678 articles were identified, of which 34 were included in the final analysis. Only three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) addressed antithrombotic therapy in CLTI following LLR. None of these demonstrated superiority of any antithrombotic regimen over the other. Eight RCTs investigated antithrombotic therapy following LLR in populations with peripheral arterial disease including CLTI subgroups and suggest a benefit of dual antiplatelet therapy on limb events. One large RCT demonstrated that dual pathway inhibition with aspirin and vascular-dose rivaroxaban reduced the risk of MALE, MACE, and unplanned target limb revascularization. Data from 22 observational studies suggest a benefit of dual antiplatelet therapy on overall survival and amputation-free survival after LLR as compared with single antiplatelet therapy. Intensified antithrombotic treatment should be proposed in patients with CLTI following LLR to reduce the risk of MALE and MACE. Randomized controlled trials on antithrombotic therapy in patients with CLTI following LLR are scarce. Dual pathway inhibition is the only regimen for which an RCT demonstrated a reduction of MALE and MACE following LLR. Dual antiplatelet therapy appears to be associated with a reduced risk of MALE in CLTI following LLR.

Eluvia stent in endovascular treatment of femoropopliteal occlusive disease: Early results of the challenge study

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to evaluate the one-year results of the Eluvia drug-eluting vascular stent (Boston Scientific, Marlborough, MA, USA) for the treatment of femoropopliteal occlusive disease (FPOD).MethodsFrom January 2021 to November 2023, this multicenter study prospectively enrolled patients with peripheral artery disease involving the femoropopliteal artery. The primary outcome measures were the rate of freedom from clinically driven target limb revascularization (f-CD-TLR), rate of freedom from major adverse events (f-MAE), rate of freedom from symptom recurrence (f-SR) and rate of freedom from all-cause death (f-ACD). The secondary outcome measures were the Rutherford grade and Vascular Quality of Life (VascuQoL) scale scores.ResultsIn total, 159 patients were enrolled in this study. The mean follow-up time was 370 days, and the follow-up rate was 83.0%. The patients' mean age was 72 years, and 82.4% were male. A total of 159 patients received 199 stent deployments. The mean lesion length was 194.4 ± 118.9 mm, and 76.7% had total occlusions. The technical success rate for endovascular treatment was 100%, and five complications occurred during the perioperative period. At one, three, six, and 12 months, the f-CD-TLR rate was 99.3%, 97.9%, 96.4%, and 92.8%, respectively; the f-MAE rate was 98.0%, 96.7%, 93.1%, and 91.3%, respectively; the f-SR rate was 94.6%, 85.5%, 80.3%, and 73.4%, respectively; and the f-ACD rate was 98.0%, 98.0%, 95.9% and 94.1%, respectively. There was a substantial increase in the Rutherford grade and average VascuQoL scores at the one-, three-, six-, and 12-month follow-ups (p < .001).ConclusionsThe Eluvia stent had a favorable effect on FPOD throughout 12 months of follow-up. Further studies with larger sample sizes and longer-term follow-up are required to confirm the real-world performance of the Eluvia stent.

Protocol for an observational study to assess the impact of pharmacogenetics on outcomes in vascular surgery (PROSPER)

INTRODUCTION

Patients with chronic limb-threatening ischaemia (CLTI) are often prescribed clopidogrel in order to reduce their risk of major adverse limb and cardiovascular events. Clopidogrel is metabolised by the CYP2C19 enzyme and genetic variations in CYP2C19 are common. These variants can influence an individual's ability to metabolise clopidogrel to its active metabolite. Few studies have investigated the relationship between patient genotype and outcomes in vascular surgery. This work aims to establish the relationship between patient genotype and outcomes after revascularisation in patients with CLTI who are prescribed clopidogrel. It will consider whether pharmacogenetics can be used to ensure patients are prescribed effective medications to optimise their outcomes.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This is an observational cohort study of patients undergoing lower limb surgical, endovascular or hybrid revascularisation for CLTI at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust. Patients taking clopidogrel post-procedure, as well as those prescribed a non-clopidogrel based medication regimen, will be recruited prior to or shortly after revascularisation. Patients will undergo CYP2C19 genotyping and will be followed up using online records. The study has 90% power to detect 114 amputations with a target sample size of 483 participants. The primary outcomes are risk of amputation at 1 year and a composite endpoint for the risk of major adverse limb events (MALE) or death from any cause at 1 year. Secondary outcomes are risk of MALE at 1 year, risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) or death from any cause at 1 year, death within 30 days of revascularisation, minor re-interventions at 1 year, total number of re-interventions at 1 year and rate of systemic or gastrointestinal bleed at 1 year.Risk of amputation, MALE and MACE will be analysed using Cox models. All remaining outcomes will be analysed using negative binomial models. Potential competing events for the risk of amputation will be investigated as part of a sensitivity analysis. Patients given a non-clopidogrel-based medication will be compared as an additional analysis.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Manchester University Research Ethics Committee approval obtained as part of the Implementing Pharmacogenetics to Improve Prescribing (IPTIP) trial process (IRAS 305751). The results of the study will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at international conferences.

REGISTRATION

This work is a sub-protocol for the IPTIP study which is registered as ISRCTN14050335.

Editor's Choice - Reporting and Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews Underpinning Clinical Practice Guidelines for Vascular Surgery: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVE

Clinical practice guideline recommendations are often informed by systematic reviews. This review aimed to appraise the reporting and methodological quality of systematic reviews informing clinical practice recommendations relevant to vascular surgery.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE and Embase.

METHODS

MEDLINE and Embase were searched from 1 January 2021 to 5 May 2023 for clinical practice guidelines relevant to vascular surgery. Guidelines were then screened for systematic reviews informing recommendations. The reporting and methodological quality of these systematic reviews were assessed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 statement and Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR 2) 2017 tool. Pearson correlation and multiple regression analyses were performed to determine associations between these scores and extracted study characteristics.

RESULTS

Eleven clinical practice guidelines were obtained, containing 1 783 references informing guideline recommendations. From these, 215 systematic reviews were included for synthesis. PRISMA item completeness ranged 14 - 100%, with a mean of 63% across reviews. AMSTAR 2 item completeness ranged 2 - 95%, with a mean of 50%. Pearson correlation highlighted a statistically significant association between a review's PRISMA and AMSTAR 2 score (r = 0.85, p < .001). A more recent publication year was associated with a statistically significant increase in both scores (PRISMA coefficient 1.28, p < .001; and AMSTAR 2 coefficient 1.31, p < .001). Similarly, the presence of funding in a systematic review was shown to be statistically significantly associated with an increase in both PRISMA and AMSTAR 2 scores (coefficient 4.93, p = .024; and coefficient 6.07, p = .019, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Systematic reviews informing clinical practice guidelines relevant to vascular surgery were of moderate quality at best. Organisations producing clinical practice guidelines should consider funding systematic reviews to improve the quality of their recommendations.

Antithrombotic therapy impact on patency and bleeding complications of arteriovenous graft placement in dialysis patients

Background: Arteriovenous grafts (AVG) can be the only bailout solution for patients who require kidney replacement therapy but are unsuitable for arteriovenous fistula (AVF) creation. Currently, high-level evidence on the effectiveness and safety of antithrombotic therapy in AVG patients is scarce. Materials and methods: Following the PICO (patient; intervention; comparator; outcome) model and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a data search of the English literature in PubMed, SCOPUS, Central Cochrane was conducted, until March 1st, 2023 (PROSPERO Protocol Number: CRD42023401785). Studies on humans with an AVG receiving any kind of antithrombotic medication, reporting on primary and secondary patency rates, and bleeding complications were included. Due to data heterogeneity, a descriptive report of the outcomes was undertaken. Results: Twelve studies, including 22,436 patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and AVG were included, with patient recruitment spanning over a 41-year time-period (1982-2023). Antithrombotic factors included acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), clopidogrel, dipyridamole, warfarin, unfractioned heparin (UFH), and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). Ten studies reported on primary patency rates, and two on secondary patency rates. Primary and secondary patency rates (PPR, SPR) were reported better in four studies, similar in three and worse in one study, regarding patients receiving any kind of antiplatelet therapy. Anticoagulation therapy was not associated with increased PPR or SPR, except for one study on apixaban. Patients receiving single or combined antiplatelets versus patients receiving no treatment presented higher bleeding risk in two studies and similar bleeding risk in three studies. Anticoagulation therapy, excluding apixaban, was associated with higher bleeding risk in three studies, when compared to no anticoagulation. Conclusions: Data derived from the current literature were equivocal regarding the use of antiplatelet treatment in patients with AVG. Studies on anticoagulation therapy are confined. Randomized trials with confounder stratification remain crucial for robust long-term data.

An artificial intelligence interpretable tool to predict risk of deep vein thrombosis after endovenous thermal ablation

OBJECTIVE

Endovenous thermal ablation (EVTA) stands as one of the primary treatments for superficial venous insufficiency. Concern exists about the potential for thromboembolic complications following this procedure. Although rare, those complications can be severe, necessitating early identification of patients prone to increased thrombotic risks. This study aims to leverage artificial intelligence-based algorithms to forecast patients' likelihood of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) within 30 days following EVTA.

METHODS

From 2007 to 2017, all patients who underwent EVTA were identified using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. We developed and validated four machine learning models using demographics, comorbidities, and laboratory values to predict the risk of postoperative DVT: Classification and Regression Trees (CART), Optimal Classification Trees (OCT), Random Forests, and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost). The models were trained using all the available variables. SHapley Additive exPlanations analysis was adopted to interpret model outcomes and offer medical insights into feature importance and interactions.

RESULTS

A total of 21,549 patients were included (mean age, 54 ± 14 years; 67% female). In this cohort, 1.59% developed DVT. The XGBoost model had good discriminative power for predicting DVT risk with area under the curve of 0.711 in the hold-out test set for the all-variable model. Stratification of the test set by age, body mass index, preoperative white blood cell count, and platelet count shows that the model performs equally well across these groups.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed and validated an interpretable model that enables physicians to predict which patients with superficial venous insufficiency has higher risk of developing DVT within 30 days following EVTA.

Perioperative Antithrombotic Strategies in Vascular Surgery: A Survey in Germany

Background and Aims

The variety of modern antithrombotic medications complicates the choice of individual perioperative therapy in vascular surgery, especially when more than one antithrombotic option is possible. The aim of this study was to determine the perioperative and periinterventional setting concerning antithrombotics in vascular surgery in Germany.

Methods

This article is based on a survey from year 2018 of heads of German vascular surgical departments or units regarding their experience with different anticoagulants. The survey asked for the frequency and time of preoperative pausing of the antithrombotics before various vascular operations or interventions.

Results

The evaluable response rate was 52% (169/324). Acetylsalicylic acid was discontinued before open aortic surgery in 9% (15/169) of respondents. Clopidogrel was paused in 65% (107/169) before open aortic surgery, in 25% (41/169) before vascular surgery (like carotid endarterectomy, endovascular aortic repair, or operations on peripheral arteries), and in 11% (18/169) before peripheral percutaneous interventions. Discontinuation of vitamin K antagonists or direct oral anticoagulants (took place before conventional operations in 99.4%; oral anticoagulation was continued for peripheral percutaneous interventions in only 6% (8/169). Management was heterogeneous with regard to the timing of the perioperative medication pause. Clopidogrel was not discontinued according to time specifications in 8%; ticagrelor in 75%; rivaroxaban in 23%; and dabigatran in 29%, compared to the recommendations of the industrial information sheets.

Conclusion

The perioperative antithrombotic therapy in German vascular surgery clinics is not uniform and does not correspond to the current specialist recommendations in a notable proportion of clinics.

Efficacy and Safety of Tranexamic Acid in Noncardiac Arterial Procedures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Noncardiac arterial procedures (NCAPs) are associated with a high risk of bleeding. Tranexamic acid (TXA) is used among surgical disciplines to reduce blood loss; however, its effectiveness and safety in NCAP remain unclear. This review evaluates the efficacy and safety of TXA during NCAP.

METHODS

Systematic review and meta-analysis was performed in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Literature searches in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases (October 2023 and October 2024) identified studies investigating TXA in open and endovascular NCAP. Meta-analyses were conducted using Cochrane's Review Manager.

RESULTS

Five studies (n = 4304) were identified. One randomized controlled trial of TXA in noncardiac surgery (n = 9535), including a vascular cohort (14.8%; n = 699 TXA, n = 700 placebo), showed lower composite bleeding outcomes in the overall cohort receiving TXA (9.5% vs 11.7%; P < 0.001), but not in the vascular cohort (hazard ratio 0.85; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.64-1.13). Another trial found no difference in blood loss or transfusion rates in 100 patients undergoing open abdominal aortic aneurysm surgery. Both trials reported no increased cardiovascular or thromboembolic complications (TECs) or 30-day mortality. A prospective study showed similar thrombosis-related technical failure rates in traumatic vascular injury patients (TXA 6.3% vs 3.8%, P = 0.14) and no significant differences in bleeding or hematoma (TXA 11.4% vs 4.3%, P = 0.13). In 297 carotid endarterectomy (CEA) patients, TXA significantly reduced postoperative hematoma (7.9% vs 1.3%; P = 0.01) without increasing TEC or stroke. TXA during an intraoperative hemostasis protocol during CEA (TXA n = 8) reported similar results. Meta-analysis showed no significant differences in TEC (risk ratio [RR] 1.10; 95% CI 0.71-1.70) or reoperation rates (RR 0.55; 95% CI 0.19-1.63).

CONCLUSION

TXA does not increase the risk of TEC in NCAP. However, there is currently insufficient evidence that TXA reduces bleeding complications.

Mechanical Thrombectomy for the Management of Acute Branch Occlusions in Patients who Previously Underwent Fenestrated/Branched Endovascular Repair for Thoracoabdominal Aneurysm

BACKGROUND

Acute thrombosis of visceral artery branch stents represents a rare but potentially devastating complication among patients who have undergone fenestrated and branched endovascular repair (F/BEVAR) for the treatment of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA). There is limited data regarding the optimal management strategy in these patients. In this study, we describe the management and outcomes of patients who presented with this complication and were subsequently treated with the use of percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all patients enrolled in a single-institution, physician-sponsored investigational device exemption trial for endovascular repair of thoracoabdominal aneurysms (F/BEVAR) from 2012 to 2024 was performed. Patients who presented during the long-term follow-up period with acute graft thrombosis and treated with percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy were identified, and their preoperative course, hospital management, and long-term follow-up are described.

RESULTS

3 patients (1.3%) were identified with acute mesenteric ischemia or acute kidney injury due to branch graft occlusion and were subsequently treated with percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy. All patients were on a statin and an antiplatelet agent at the time of presentation, and the time from symptom onset to presentation was between 11 hr and 1 week. Patient 1 had complete occlusion of all 4 visceral artery branches. Patient 2 had occlusion of the celiac and superior mesenteric arteries (SMA), and patient 3 had occlusion of the right renal artery. All had successful return of vessel patency following mechanical thrombectomy, with an average fluoroscopy time of 15.5 min. All were spared bowel resection or permanent need for dialysis, and in each of the 7 affected vessels, patency was intact on long-term follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy represents a viable treatment modality for patients with acute thrombosis of branch stents following F/BEVAR, including those who present in extremis or with multivessel involvement. Given the rapid rate of flow restoration, this technique may represent the optimal treatment modality for this patient population.

Comparative and Prognosis Study of Peripheral Arterial Dissections

OBJECTIVE

Peripheral arterial dissections are uncommon, with cervical artery dissections being the most prevalent. Comparative data on the evolution of renal, splanchnic, and coronary dissections are scarce. This study aimed to characterise and assess the prognosis of non-aortic arterial dissections based on their anatomical territories.

METHODS

Patients with dissection of cervical, coronary, renal, or splanchnic arteries from 2017 - 2022 that were documented at Nantes University Hospital were included retrospectively.

RESULTS

A total of 185 patients were included. Compared with other arterial territories, patients with coronary or vertebral dissections were more frequently females (p = .006), patients with vertebral or renal dissections were younger (p = .009), and patients with splanchnic dissections had more heritable connective tissue disorders (HCTDs) (p = .002); these differences were statistically significant for each comparison with the other groups. Cardiovascular risk factors did not statistically significantly differ according to the territory dissected. Ischaemic complications represented 44.8%, 91.7%, 88.2%, and 20.0% for cervical, coronary, renal, and splanchnic dissections, respectively (p < .001). The median follow up was 19 months (range 1 - 177 months). For all territories, symptomatic recurrence of dissection was observed in 10.3%, and the median time to recurrence was 34 months. Symptomatic dissection recurrence rates for patients with a single dissection at diagnosis and for multiple dissections were 6.8% and 22.2%, respectively (p = .030). In the multiple territories dissection group, there were more females (83.3% vs. 34.2%; p < .001), more HCTDs were identified (11.1% vs. 1.9%; p = .024), and patients were younger (p = .049).

CONCLUSION

Patients' clinical phenotypes differed according to the territory initially dissected, with a higher frequency of HCTDs in splanchnic dissections. Dissections affecting several beds or territories at diagnosis were associated with a higher rate of recurrence. These data need to be confirmed in large prospective studies.

Diagnosis and management of acute mesenteric ischemia: What you need to know

ABSTRACT

Acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) is associated with high mortality rates. There are multiple challenges to establishing an accurate early diagnosis and providing state-of-the-art care for AMI patients. A high index of suspicion is key for early diagnosis. Once suspicion is raised, a triphasic computed tomography angiography is the essential diagnostic tool. Avoiding delays, using hybrid operating rooms and contemporary revascularization techniques for arterial occlusive AMI, can significantly improve the prognosis. Regional health care systems should be developed to direct AMI patients into centers with sufficient capabilities for providing all aspects of care at all hours. The acute care surgeon has a central role in performing laparotomies and bowel resections when needed and coordinating the management flow in close collaboration with vascular surgeons and interventional radiologists for prompt and effective revascularization. A significant share of patients with an arterial occlusive AMI can be managed by endovascular revascularization without the need for a laparotomy. There are no reliable tools for predicting transmural bowel necrosis, and individual assessment and clinical experience are very important in decision-making when choosing between laparotomy and close observation. During laparotomy, an atherosclerotic occlusion at the root of the superior mesenteric artery can be stented by using a retrograde open mesenteric or percutaneous approach, and surgical bypass is seldom needed. Using hospital-specific management pathways is very useful for the standardization of care in arterial occlusive AMI. In venous AMI, systemic anticoagulation is sufficient in most cases. In patients whose symptoms do not resolve, there are various options for endovascular and surgical revascularization. In nonocclusive mesenteric ischemia, prevention by maintaining sufficient abdominal perfusion pressure is key. High-level evidence is scarce, but with current knowledge, the prognosis of AMI patients has plenty of room for improvement.

Safety and effectiveness of direct oral anticoagulants in fragile patients with venous thromboembolism: a retrospective cohort observational study

Purpose

The use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) is challenging in fragile patients, including those with cancer, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and old age. We aimed to compare the safety of DOACs in terms of bleeding complications in these patients.

Methods

Using hospital data from 2013 to 2019, we compared the risk of bleeding and major bleeding, including intracranial bleeding, any bleeding requiring transfusion, and all-cause bleeding, in patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE) who were naïve to DOAC (n = 12,369) and warfarin (n = 4,123). Hazard ratios (HRs) for the clinical outcomes were analyzed using Cox regression analysis, with warfarin as a reference.

Results

The study included 4,078 eligible patients, predominantly female (54.1%), with a mean age of 62.5 years. DOACs were the primary treatment in 74.1% of the patients. DOAC treatment was associated with lower all-cause mortality compared to warfarin (HR, 0.799; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.707-0.904). Although rates of recurrent VTE or major bleeding did not significantly differ between the groups, DOAC-treated patients had lower bleeding risk (HR, 0.562; 95% CI, 0.393-0.805; P = 0.002). The individual DOAC drugs did not differ significantly in terms of composite outcomes, recurrence, or bleeding events.

Conclusion

DOAC showed comparable outcomes with warfarin in the fragile patient population.

Medication adherence of patients with peripheral arterial disease to antithrombotic therapy: a systematic review

OBJECTIVES

Antithrombotic therapy (ATT) prevents atherothrombotic events (AE) in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). However, the benefit may be compromised by poor medication adherence (MA). Therefore, our primary objective was the proportion of patients with PAD with poor MA in literature following patient-reported, pharmacy-reported or laboratory-reported outcome measurements. Poor MA is a combined outcome of primary non-adherence (inability to initiate a prescription), secondary non-adherence (incorrect daily intake) and non-persistence (discontinuation of daily intake).

DESIGN

Systematic review based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library were searched from 2000 to June 2023.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Publications with a (sub)cohort of patients with PAD that reported on patients' MA to ATT were included.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

All articles were reviewed on eligibility and methodological quality by two independent researchers. The data were retrieved and collected in Review Manager Web and the percentages were calculated per subgroup. The risk of bias was assessed by using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomised controlled trials (RCT) and the methodological index for non-randomised studies score for non-RCTs.

RESULTS

We identified 274 potential records of which 10 studies (32 628 patients) were included. Six studies were RCTs and two prospective and two retrospective studies. Most studies scored a moderate risk of bias and had heterogeneous study designs. Poor MA rates ranged between 2% and 45%. Higher rates of poor MA were found in studies with longer follow-ups, pharmacy-reported outcome measurements and registry-based cohorts.

CONCLUSION

Heterogeneous study designs create a wide dispersion in the proportions. However, poor MA to ATT was found in approximately one-third of the patients with PAD and seemed to increase with longer therapy duration, which highlights the magnitude of this societal challenge. Enhancing patients' MA to ATT might be a key element in reducing the risk of AE, and therefore, more attention to MA in clinical and research settings is warranted.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42023431803.

Antithrombotic therapies for patients with acute iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis following endovenous recanalization: A single-center study and literature review

OBJECTIVES

There is no consensus regarding the optimal antithrombotic therapy following endovenous recanalization. We aim to assess the effectiveness of anticoagulant, antiplatelet, or combination therapy to provide evidence-based recommendations for antithrombotic therapy following interventional procedures.

METHODS

An Institutional Review Board approved, retrospective study of patients presented to our facility with iliofemoral venous thrombosis requiring thrombolysis and/or thrombectomy with or without venous angioplasty/stenting between January 1, 2010 and April 1, 2023. Incidence of vein or stent patency, thrombosis, and bleeding were considered primary endpoints and were compared between patients on anticoagulant, antiplatelet, or combination therapies at each post-interventional surveillance, up to five visits.

RESULTS

The cohort yielded 128 patients, including 116 adults and 12 minors. We identified a notable trend in the post-recanalization medical routines of patients: those initially prescribed combination therapy post-procedure eventually transitioned to either exclusive anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy. The initial combination antithrombotic therapy was associated with trends towards higher vein patency (59% vs 47% with anticoagulant vs 25% antiplatelet, p = .3), less recurrent vein and stent thrombosis (46% vs 54% with anticoagulants vs 100% antiplatelet, p = .10), and overall low major bleeding complications (3.2% vs 6.8% anticoagulant, p = .5) at first follow-up compared to those on anticoagulant or antiplatelet regimens alone.

CONCLUSION

Although the optimal post-interventional antithrombotic therapy remains uncertain, combination therapy was associated with trends towards higher vein patency and lower recurrent thrombosis, with low overall major bleeding complications at the first follow-up visit following interventions. Future studies encompassing larger and more diverse populations are essential to corroborate the findings presented in this report and offer valuable insights for optimizing the management of patients with this condition.

Impact of Antithrombotic Therapy on Thrombotic and Bleeding Complications after Elective Endovascular Repair of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

PURPOSE

To investigate the influence of antithrombotic therapy on occurrence of thrombotic and bleeding complications after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR).

METHODS

In this retrospective single-center cohort study, patients who underwent elective endovascular aneurysm repair for abdominal aortic aneurysm were categorized into three antithrombotic groups: single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT), anticoagulants, or dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT). Outcome measures were the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), prosthetic limb occlusions, and bleeding complications during follow-up.

RESULTS

Among 616 patients (SAPT: n = 450, anticoagulants: n = 84, and DAPT: n = 82), Kaplan-Meier analysis showed no significant difference (log-rank p = 0.37) in incidence of MACE between patients receiving SAPT (20.9%), anticoagulants (25.0%), and DAPT (14.6%) during a median follow-up of almost 4 years. In multivariable Cox regression analysis, only age (HR = 1.03; 95% CI 1.01-1.06, p = 0.01) and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification (HR = 1.46; 95% CI 1.12-1.91; p = 0.01) were significant predictors for MACE. Prosthetic limb occlusion was observed in 38 patients during a median follow-up of 4 years; incidence between patients receiving SAPT (5.8%), anticoagulants (10.7%), and DAPT (3.7%) was not significantly different (log-rank p = 0.08). Age (HR = 0.96; 95% CI 0.92-1.00; p = 0.03) and use of anticoagulants (HR = 3.79, 95% CI 1.46-9.83; p < 0.01) were significant predictors for prosthetic limb occlusion. Bleeding complications occurred in 73 patients during median follow-up of almost 4 years, without significant difference (log rank p = 0.06) in incidence between patients receiving SAPT (10.7%), anticoagulants (19.0%), and DAPT (11.0%). ASA classification (HR = 1.74; 95% CI 1.23-2.46; p < 0.01) was a significant predictor for bleeding complications.

CONCLUSION

Use of anticoagulants after EVAR appears to be associated with a higher risk of prosthetic limb occlusion compared to the use of single or dual antiplatelet therapy.

Editor's Choice -- European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) 2025 Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Vascular Trauma

OBJECTIVE

The European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) has developed clinical practice guidelines for the care of patients with vascular trauma with the aim of assisting physicians in selecting the optimal management strategy.

METHODS

The guidelines are based on scientific evidence completed with expert opinion. By summarising and evaluating the best available evidence, recommendations for the evaluation and treatment of patients have been formulated. The recommendations are graded according to the ESVS evidence grading system, where the strength (class) of each recommendation is graded from I to III, and the letters A to C mark the level of evidence.

RESULTS

A total of 105 recommendations have been issued on the following topics: general principles for vascular trauma care and resuscitation including technical skill sets, bleeding control and restoration of perfusion, graft materials, and imaging; management of vascular trauma in the neck, thoracic aorta and thoracic outlet, abdomen, and upper and lower extremities; post-operative considerations after vascular trauma; and paediatric vascular trauma. In addition, unresolved vascular trauma issues and the patients' perspectives are discussed.

CONCLUSION

The ESVS clinical practice guidelines provide the most comprehensive, up to date, evidence based advice to clinicians on the management of vascular trauma.

Editor's Choice - Role of Antiplatelet Therapy in Patients Managed for Complex Aortic Aneurysms using Fenestrated or Branched Endovascular Repair

OBJECTIVE

Despite the increasing number of fenestrated and branched endovascular aortic repair (F/B-EVAR) procedures, evidence on post-operative antiplatelet therapy is very limited. This study aimed to investigate the role of single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) vs. double antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after F/B-EVAR in 30 day and follow up outcomes.

METHODS

A multicentre retrospective analysis was conducted, including F/B-EVAR patients managed from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2022. Comparative outcomes were assessed according to post-operative antiplatelet therapy. The cohort was divided into the SAPT group (acetylsalicylic acid [ASA] or clopidogrel) and DAPT group (ASA and clopidogrel). The duration of SAPT or DAPT was one to six months. Primary outcomes were 30 day death, and cardiovascular ischaemic and major haemorrhagic events. Secondary outcomes were survival and target vessel (TV) patency during follow up.

RESULTS

A total of 1 430 patients were included: 955 under SAPT and 475 under DAPT. The 30 day mortality rate was similar (SAPT 2.1% vs. DAPT 1.5%; p = .42). Cardiovascular ischaemic events were lower in the DAPT group (SAPT 11.9% vs. DAPT 8.2%; p = .040), with DAPT being an independent protector for acute mesenteric (p = .009) and lower limb ischaemia (p = .020). No difference was found in 30 day major haemorrhagic events (SAPT 7.5% vs. DAPT 6.3%; p = .40). The mean follow up was 21.8 ± 2.9 months. Cox regression showed no survival confounders, with similar rates between groups (log rank p = .71). DAPT patients enjoyed higher TV patency (SAPT 93.4%, standard error [SE] 0.7% vs. DAPT 97.0%, SE 0.6%; log rank p = .007) at thirty six months. Cox regression revealed B-EVAR as a predictor of worse TV patency (hazard ratio 2.03, 95% confidence interval 1.36 - 3.03; p < .001). DAPT was related to higher patency within B-EVAR patients (SAPT 87.2%, SE 2.1% vs. DAPT 94.9%, SE 1.9%; p < .001).

CONCLUSION

DAPT after F/B-EVAR was associated with lower risk of cardiovascular ischaemic events and higher TV patency, especially in B-EVAR cases. No difference in major haemorrhagic events was observed at 30 days.

Short-Term Outcomes of Dual Versus Single Antiplatelet Therapy Following Popliteal and Infrapopliteal Endovascular Therapy: Data From Dutch Chronic Lower Limb-Threatening Ischemia Registry (THRILLER)

OBJECTIVE

There is a lack of consensus regarding the optimal antithrombotic therapy (ATT) after popliteal and infrapopliteal (PIP) endovascular therapy (EVT). Currently, dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) for 3 months and single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) are the most prescribed regimens in the Netherlands. Thus far, no randomized comparison has been performed on the optimal ATT approach. Therefore, this study compared the efficacy and safety of 3-month DAPT with SAPT following PIP EVT.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from a multicenter registry.

METHODS

The Dutch chronic lower limb-threatening ischemia registry (THRILLER) collected prospective data on patients enrolled between January 2021 and October 2023. As for ATT, only patients prescribed antiplatelet therapy (APT), were included in this analysis. The primary efficacy outcome was a composite of 3-month major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs, ie, myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular event, cardiovascular death), major adverse limb events (MALEs, ie, major amputation, reintervention), and non-cardiovascular death. Secondary efficacy outcomes were 3-month MACE, MALE, and all-cause mortality. The primary safety outcome was major bleeding according to the 'Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction' (TIMI) classification. Descriptive statistics and Cox proportional hazard models were applied.

RESULTS

In total, 460 of 840 THRILLER patients used DAPT or SAPT as ATT and were therefore included in the analysis. Of these, 322 (70%) received DAPT and 138 (30%) received SAPT. In total, 73 (15.9%) primary efficacy outcomes were observed of which 21 (15.2%) events in the SAPT group and 52 (16.1%) events in the DAPT group. No significant differences were observed between SAPT and DAPT for the primary efficacy outcomes or any of the secondary efficacy outcomes. In both groups, one case of major bleeding was observed.

CONCLUSION

The findings suggest that 3 months of DAPT is not superior to SAPT. A well-powered randomized trial is warranted to assess the efficacy and safety of post-procedural DAPT in chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) patients undergoing PIP EVT.

CLINICAL IMPACT

This manuscript reports on the efficacy and safety outcomes of 3 months of DAPT versus SAPT, which are commonly chosen therapies following popliteal and infrapopliteal endovascular therapy. No significant difference was found between the two groups regarding major adverse cardiovascular events, all-cause death, major amputation, or major bleeding. Therefore, 3 months of DAPT does not seem superior to SAPT. These results suggest that SAPT appears to be a sufficient alternative when considering 3 months of DAPT. Further research should verify these outcomes and focus on the efficacy and safety of prolonged DAPT suppletion after endovascular therapy.

Clopidogrel combined with rivaroxaban in peripheral artery disease after revascularization

Background

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of clopidogrel-rivaroxaban combination compared to aspirin-rivaroxaban combination in patients with symptomatic peripheral artery disease (PAD).

Methods

Consecutive patients with symptomatic PAD patients were analyzed from January, 2018 to June, 2022 at Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital. Patients were divided into two groups based on the antithrombotic therapy. The primary efficacy outcome was a composite of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and major adverse limb events (MALE), and the primary safety outcome was major bleeding. Patients were followed until the first occurrence of any outcomes or the study end date (30 June 2024).

Results

A total of 695 patients were enrolled into this study. The clopidogrel-rivaroxaban combination significantly reduced the risk of composite outcome (HR: 0.59, 95%CI: 0.41-0.83) without increasing the risk of major bleeding (HR: 0.68, 95%CI: 0.27-1.69). When analyzed separately, clopidogrel-rivaroxaban combination was associated with a reduced risk of MALE (HR: 0.61, 95%CI: 0.41-0.91), although no significant differences were observed in terms of MACE (HR: 0.64, 95%CI: 0.34-1.20) or all bleeding events (HR: 1.00, 95%CI: 0.52-1.93). In the subgroup analysis, there were no significant interactions between the treatment groups and the subgroups of age, diabetes, lesion sites, Rutherford classifications and renal function for composite outcome, MACE and MALE.

Conclusion

The clopidogrel-rivaroxaban combination in PAD patients may offer enhanced cardiovascular protection without increasing the risk of bleeding complications. These findings suggested that clopidogrel could be a superior alternative to aspirin in dual antithrombotic therapy for PAD management.

Single versus dual antiplatelet therapy impact on coagulation/thrombosis post PAD revascularization

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate and compare the impact of single- versus dual-antiplatelet (SAPT vs DAPT) therapy on coagulation profiles and postoperative outcomes in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD).

METHODS

Patients with PAD undergoing lower extremity revascularization from December 2020 to August 2023 were prospectively enrolled in this cohort study and followed for one year to record the incidence of thrombotic events (TEs). These events include arterial graft/stent occlusion or stenosis, as identified through Doppler ultrasonography or angiography. Patients were categorized by type of intervention (open vs. endovascular) and further stratified by thromboprophylaxis regimen (SAPT vs DAPT). Descriptive statistics were conducted to characterize each group. Differences in continuous variables were analyzed using Student's t-test, while categorical variables were evaluated using Fisher's exact test. Kaplan-Meier survival curves and cox proportional hazard assessed the thrombosis probability between groups.

RESULTS

A total of 157 patients were analyzed, of which 56 were open and 101 were endovascular. In the endovascular group, the majority of patients were on DAPT (61.4%), whereas in the open procedure, most individuals were on SAPT (78.6%). DAPT recipients exhibited a lower prothrombotic profile than SAPT recipients in either operative cohort (p < .05). However, the incidence of index TEs was similar between medication groups within each cohort over the one-year follow-up period. DAPT was associated with a decreased incidence of recurrent TEs in the open intervention group (p < .001), indicating its potential for reducing subsequent thrombotic complications following an index TE. Additionally, there was no significant difference in thrombosis probability between endovascular and open procedures (p = .73), nor between DAPT and SAPT groups across both procedure modalities (p = .98).

CONCLUSION

While DAPT demonstrated lower prothrombotic thromboelastography with platelet mapping profiles compared to SAPT, this did not translate into differences in index TEs across surgical modalities.

Editor's Choice - European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Publication Standards for Reporting Vascular Surgical Research

OBJECTIVE

Manuscripts submitted to the European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery (EJVES) often contain shortcomings in baseline scientific principles and incorrectly applied methodology. Consequently, the editorial team is forced to offer post hoc repair in an attempt to support the authors to improve their manuscripts. This repair could theoretically have been prevented by providing more clear definitions and reporting standards to serve researchers when planning studies and eventually writing their manuscripts. Therefore, the general principles for EJVES publication standards are summarised here.

METHODS

These publication standards did not follow a systematic approach but reflect the common opinion of the current Senior and Section Editors team. This team decided to only include recommendations regarding the most common pathologies in vascular surgery in this first edition of publication standards, namely carotid artery disease, abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD), and chronic venous disease. In future editions, the plan is to expand the areas of research.

RESULTS

Presented are (1) a common set of minimum but required publication standards applicable to every report, e.g., patient characteristics, study design, treatment environment, selection criteria, core outcomes of interventions such as 30 day death and morbidity, and measures for completeness of data including outcome information, and (2) a common set of minimum publication standards for four vascular areas.

CONCLUSION

The editors of the EJVES propose universally accepted definitions and publication standards for carotid artery disease, AAA, PAOD, and chronic venous disease. This will enable the development of a convincing body of evidence to aid future clinical practice guidelines and drive clinical practice in the right direction. These first ever publication and reporting standards for EJVES aim to improve future research published in the journal.

Impact of polypharmacy on patients undergoing revascularisation for peripheral arterial disease

Background: To evaluate the impact of polypharmacy, defined as the concurrent use of five or more medications, on the clinical outcomes of patients undergoing revascularisation for symptomatic peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Patients and methods: This is a retrospective analysis of consecutive PAD patients treated by surgical, endovascular or hybrid therapy in a tertiary center between January 2017 and December 2017. The composite of amputation and/or death (amputation-free survival; AFS) was the primary endpoint. Mortality, major limb amputation, risk for Major Cardio-Cerobro-vascular Events (MACCE) and re-intervention during follow-up were additionally analyzed. Results: A total of 560 patients (369 male, 66%) were included. Mean age was 72.43 ± 38.67, while the main indication for treatment was lifestyle limiting claudication (330 patients, 59%). Most patients (434, 78%) were treated with endovascular means, and the commonest anatomical site of intervention was the femoropopliteal arterial segment (449 patients, 80%). A total of 409 (73%) met the criteria for polypharmacy. Cox regression analysis showed that polypharmacy was an independent predictor of death (exp: 4.72, p=0.008), MACCE (exp: 2.82, p=0.001), re-intervention (exp 1.51, p=0.0016) and of the composite outcome of AFS (exp: 3.46, p=0.021) but not of major amputation (exp: 1.26, p=0.686). Propensity-score matching analysis showed that even when controlling for comorbidity and procedural characteristics, polypharmacy is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular death (p<0.001), MACCE (p<0.001), and re-intervention (p=0.001). Conclusions: In this study, polypharmacy was associated with unfavourable clinical outcomes for patients undergoing revascularisation for symptomatic PAD, without influencing the risk for major limb amputation.

Branch Thrombus after Endovascular Treatment with Arch Branched Devices for Aortic Arch Pathologies

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to describe the occurrence of branch thrombosis following endovascular treatment of aortic arch pathology using an arch branched device (ABD) and to determine whether this is influenced by clinical and geometric parameters.

METHODS

In this retrospective observational study of patients treated with an ABD in three centres, the primary endpoint was thrombus formation within a branch during follow up. Secondary endpoints were technical success, serious adverse events (SAEs), early and late death, stroke, and re-interventions. Geometric measurements (tortuosity index and curvature) were determined on pre- and post-operative computed tomography angiograms.

RESULTS

Thirty nine patients were treated and 68 antegrade branches were analysed (innominate artery, n = 27; common carotid artery [CCA], n = 40; left subclavian artery [LSA], n = 1). Thrombus was identified within seven branches (10%) on surveillance imaging (innominate artery, n = 6; CCA, n = 1; LSA, n = 0; p = .021) and was associated with a wider distal bridging stent diameter (median 14.0 mm [13.3, 15.3] vs. 8.7 mm [IQR 5.9]; p = .026), a higher degree of reversed tapering (4.3 mm [3.8, 5.2] vs. 1.2 mm [0.3, 3.1]; p = .023), use of polyethylene terephthalate (Dacron) covered (vs. expanded polytetrafluoroethylene) bridging stents (23% vs. 2%; p = .011), and higher body mass index (BMI) (32.1 kg/m2 [28.7, 36.2] vs. 25.7 kg/m2 [23.8, 29.2]; p = .029), but not with pre-operative or post-operative tortuosity index or curvature or alterations. Regarding secondary outcomes, the technical success rate was 97%, SAEs occurred in 15 patients (38%), early and late death rates were 8% and 23%, respectively, and early and late stroke rates were 5% and 23%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The risk of developing branch thrombosis after endovascular intervention with an ABD is considerable, especially of innominate artery branches, characterised by Dacron covered large diameter bridging stents, and in patients with a high BMI. Large prospective studies are required to analyse factors associated with branch thrombosis.

Effect of Peripheral Interventions in Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease Receiving Rivaroxaban and Aspirin: Analyses from the XATOA Registry

OBJECTIVE

To assess the characteristics and clinical outcomes of patients with lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD) in XATOA receiving dual pathway inhibition (DPI) with rivaroxaban 2.5 mg twice daily plus aspirin according to lower extremity revascularisation (LER) history.

METHODS

XATOA is an international, multicentre, prospective, single arm registry study. This subanalysis investigated patients with lower extremity PAD according to LER history. Patients with coronary artery disease, PAD, or both, receiving DPI were followed for 12 or more months. Baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes were assessed according to LER history. A time dependency analysis assessed outcomes by time between the most recent LER procedure and the start of DPI. A multivariable analysis assessed the influence of patient characteristics on clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

In XATOA (n = 5 532), 2 820 (51.0%) patients had lower extremity PAD, of whom 1 736 (61.6%) had prior LER and 1 084 (38.4%) had no prior LER. Baseline characteristics were generally similar between patients with or without prior LER. A higher proportion of patients with prior LER experienced any treatment emergency clinical events compared with those without prior LER (15.0% vs. 9.4%, respectively), with greater differences observed between incidence rates of limb events, including major adverse limb events (9.06 vs. 4.09 events per 100 patient years, respectively). Similar rates of myocardial infarction, stroke, and major bleeding were observed in both subgroups. Clinical event rates were generally higher in patients who had previous LER for six months or less compared with patients who had previous LET for more than six months before starting DPI, regardless of LER type. Multivariable analyses showed that prior LER was predictive of limb events.

CONCLUSION

This subanalysis of XATOA found that prior LER was associated with increased rates of limb events, consistent with results of COMPASS and VOYAGER PAD. Rates of bleeding were also low regardless of LER history and consistent with the findings from these trials.

Endograft Thrombosis as an Indication for Open Conversion after Endovascular Aneurysm Repair in a Multicenter Experience over 25 Years

BACKGROUND

To describe the outcomes of aortic endograft thrombosis (AET) as an indication for open conversion (OC) after endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) in a multicenter experience.

METHODS

This study retrospectively analyzed cases of OC for AET following EVAR across 12 Italian Vascular Surgery centers from 1997 to September 2022. The end points were as follows: 30-day mortality and major postoperative complications. Follow-up data included survival and aortic-related complications.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients (mean age: 68.6 ± 8.5 years) were included. The median elapsed time between EVAR and OC was 26.46 months (interquartile range: 13.8-45.9). Proximal aortic cross-clamping site was supraceliac in 8 out of 16 (50%) patients, and complete removal of the stentgraft was achieved in 75% of cases (12/16 patients). Reconstructions were aorto-bi-iliac grafts in 8 cases (50%), 7 aortobifemoral bypass grafts (43.8%), and 1 aortoaortic tube graft (6.3%). All patients were symptomatic at presentation (68.7% unilateral acute limb ischemia, 25% bilateral acute limb ischemia, 1 patient had chronic severe claudication). Thirty-day mortality was 12.5% (2/16 patients). The overall morbidity rate was 43.8% (7 of 16 patients). No specific risk factors for early mortality were found. The overall estimated survival rate was 80.4% at 1 year, 62.5% at 2 years, and 41.7% at 3 years.

CONCLUSIONS

OC for AET is typically reserved for complex cases that are not amenable to endovascular solutions. The frequent need for suprarenal clamping and complete endograft removal seems to be associated with high short-term mortality.

The short- and long-term results of therapy of surgical diabetic foot patients

Introduction. The arterial limb threating is the leading cause of non-traumatic amputations in diabetic foot patients. The breakthrough in the treatment of this group of patients was the widespread introduction of transluminal balloon angioplasty (TLBA) of the arteries of the lower extremities.

Aim. To evaluate the results of the surgical treatment of the patients with diabetic neuro ischemic foot syndrome according the data of Government Center of Limb Salvation in 2022–2023 years.

Materials and methods. The study presents a retrospective analysis of medical documentations and the results of a survey one year after discharge from the hospital of 180 patients.

Results. The arterial limb threating is observed in equal frequency in both men with diabetes and women at a relatively young age (66.0 ± 12.8 years). The glycemic control in most patients is above the target values. Various groups of sugar-lowering drugs are widely used. More than a third of patients with CKD suffer from CKD with GFR less than 60 ml/min, however inSGLT-2 are used in slightly more than 15% of cases. The damages of the lower extremities arteries below the knee are observed in the most of cases. Every third patient has the occlusion/hemodynamically significant stenosis of the femoral and tibia arteries. The method of choosing revascularization is TLBA the lower extremities arteries without stenting, hybrid operations are performed in up to 10% of cases in the hospital. During the first year of follow up the 21.2% of the patients have recurrences of the ischemic tissue lesions of the feet including revascularization. The recurrences of the ischemic tissue lesions of the feet after surgical approach are revealed in 9% cases only. There are TLBA in all other cases. The mortality rate is 9.6 cases per 100 patients per year.

Conclusion. The patients after revascularization for the neuro-ischemic diabetic foot tissue loss and limb salvage remain at high risk of both mortality and recurrence of arterial limb threating in the early and delayed follow up.

Dual Antithrombotic Therapy versus Anticoagulant Monotherapy for Major Adverse Limb Events in Patients with Concomitant Lower Extremity Arterial Disease and Atrial Fibrillation: A Propensity Score Weighted Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Patients with symptomatic lower extremity arterial disease (LEAD) are recommended to receive antiplatelet therapy, while direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are standard for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). For patients with concomitant LEAD and AF, data comparing dual antithrombotic therapy (an antiplatelet agent used in conjunction with a DOAC) vs. DOAC monotherapy are scarce. This retrospective cohort study, based on data from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database, aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of these antithrombotic strategies.

METHODS

Patients with AF who underwent revascularisation for LEAD between 2012 - 2020 and received any DOAC within 30 days of discharge were included. Patients were grouped by antiplatelet agent exposure into the dual antithrombotic therapy and DOAC monotherapy groups. Inverse probability of treatment weighting was used to mitigate selection bias. Major adverse limb events (MALEs), ischaemic stroke or systemic embolism, and bleeding outcomes were compared. Patients were followed until the occurrence of any study outcome, death, or up to two years.

RESULTS

A total of 1 470 patients were identified, with 736 in the dual antithrombotic therapy group and 734 in the DOAC monotherapy group. Among them, 1 346 patients received endovascular therapy as the index revascularisation procedure and 124 underwent bypass surgery. At two years, dual antithrombotic therapy was associated with a higher risk of MALEs than DOAC monotherapy (subdistribution hazard ratio [SHR] 1.34, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.15 - 1.56), primarily driven by increased repeat revascularisation. Dual antithrombotic therapy was also associated with a higher risk of major bleeding (SHR 1.43, 95% CI 1.05 - 1.94) and gastrointestinal bleeding (SHR 2.17, 95% CI 1.42 - 3.33) than DOAC monotherapy.

CONCLUSION

In patients with concomitant LEAD and AF who underwent peripheral revascularisation, DOAC monotherapy was associated with a lower risk of MALEs and bleeding events than dual antithrombotic therapy.

Patient Factors Influencing Prescription of Antithrombotic Medication After Lower Limb Endovascular Intervention

OBJECTIVE

There is significant practice variation in the use of antithrombotic therapy after endovascular intervention for lower limb peripheral arterial disease, with differences in medication choice and duration. Prescriber decision making is complex, and patient factors have been shown to substantially contribute to prescribing variation. To determine the influence of patient factors on antithrombotic prescribing, a discrete choice experiment was distributed to vascular surgeons and trainees across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.

METHODS

After pilot testing, the discrete choice experiment questionnaire was distributed to 300 vascular surgeons and trainee members of the Australian and New Zealand Society for Vascular Surgery. Multinomial logistic regression models were used to analyse patient factors that had the most influence on decisions to prescribe a second antithrombotic agent, and the preferred choice of antithrombotic (clopidogrel 75 mg daily or rivaroxaban 2.5 mg twice daily) in addition to aspirin 100 mg daily. The odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) reported preference strength.

RESULTS

A total of 44 questionnaires were completed between September and October 2023, reaching the 15% targeted response rate. Prescribing a second antithrombotic was more likely after femoropopliteal stenting compared with angioplasty (OR 1.89, 95% CI 1.20 - 2.13), and in chronic limb threatening ischaemia compared with intermittent claudication (OR 1.58, 95% CI 1.20 - 2.13). Most respondents preferred clopidogrel over rivaroxaban (62%), with over a third of respondents exclusively prescribing clopidogrel. Patients with stents (OR 1.77, 95% CI 1.32 - 2.37) or moderate bleeding risk (OR 1.38, 95% CI 0.97 - 1.84) were more likely to receive clopidogrel than rivaroxaban.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that vascular surgeons primarily prioritise antithrombotic prescribing decisions by procedure type. Clopidogrel is more likely to be prescribed than rivaroxaban as a second agent in combination with aspirin, especially after stenting. Knowing these clinician preferences can target implementation strategies towards supporting decision making in subgroups of patients according to individual risk profiles.

Thromboprophylaxis in varicose veins surgery: The everyday concern

Venous thromboembolic disease (VTE) occupies an important place as a cause of morbidity and mortality in surgical patients in all specialties. Despite the existence of guidelines for thrombo prophylaxis in surgery, it is not clear due to the lack of current evidence, how to develop antithrombotic prophylaxis in varicose vein surgery and many questions arise when the surgeon is faced with a patient to be operated on. A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted to examine the evidence about the prevention of the venous thromboembolism in varicose veins surgery patients, and aims to guide the reader through questions that arise in daily practice, discussing the different scenarios presented in the literature for the choice of the most appropriate prophylaxis for each case. The lack of conclusive literature determines that risk should be individualized using available scales and other procedure-related factors, so that the type and duration of prophylaxis can be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Clinical Outcomes of 5000 IU Heparin Versus Activated Clotting Time-Guided Heparinization During Noncardiac Arterial Procedures: A Propensity Score Matched Analysis

PURPOSE

Previous studies have shown that activated clotting time (ACT)-guided heparinization leads to better anticoagulation levels during noncardiac arterial procedures (NCAP) than a standardized bolus of 5000 IU. Better anticoagulation should potentially result in lower incidence of thrombo-embolic complications (TEC). Comparative investigations on clinical outcomes of these heparinization strategies are scarce. This study investigated clinical outcomes of ACT-guided heparinization with a starting dose of 100 IU/kg in comparison with a single standardized bolus of 5000 IU heparin during NCAP.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Analysis from a prospectively collected database of patients undergoing NCAP in 2 vascular centers was performed. Patients receiving ACT-guided heparinization were matched 1:1 with patients receiving 5000 IU heparin using propensity score matching (PSM). Primary outcomes were TEC, bleeding complications, and mortality within 30 days of procedure or during the same admission.

RESULTS

A total of 759 patients (5000 IU heparin: 213 patients, ACT-guided heparinization: 546 patients) were included. Propensity score matching resulted in 209 patients in each treatment group. After PSM, the groups were comparable, with the exception of a higher prevalence of peripheral arterial disease in the ACT-guided heparinization group (103 patients, 49% vs 82 patients, 39%, p=0.039). The target ACT (>200 seconds) was reached in 198 patients (95%) of the ACT-guided group versus 71 patients (34%) of the 5000 IU group (p<0.001), indicating successful execution of the ACT-guided protocol. Incidence of TEC (13 patients, 6.2% vs 10 patients, 4.8%, p=0.52), mortality (3 patients, 1.4% vs 0 patients, p=0.25), and bleeding complications (32 patients, 15% vs 25 patients, 12%, p=0.32) did not differ between patients receiving ACT-guided heparinization and 5000 IU heparin. Protamine was administered in 118 patients (57%) in the ACT group versus 11 patients (5.3%) in the 5000 IU group (p<0.001), but did not influence incidence of TEC (17 patients, 5.9% vs 6 patients, 4.7%, p=0.61) or bleeding complications (34 patients, 12% vs 22 patients, 17%, p=0.14).

CONCLUSION

No difference in TEC, bleeding complications, or mortality was found between ACT-guided heparinization and a single bolus of 5000 IU heparin during NCAP.

CLINICAL IMPACT

Previous studies have shown that activated clotting time (ACT)-guided heparinization leads to better anticoagulation levels during non-cardiac arterial procedures (NCAP) then a standardized bolus of 5000 IU. Comparative investigations on clinical outcomes are scarce. This study focussed on clinical outcomes of both protocols in NCAP in a propensity score matched cohort. Thrombo-embolic complications (TEC), bleeding complications and mortality within 30 days after NCAP or during the same admission were comparable between groups. Future studies should focus on optimizing ACT-guided protocols, specifically in patients with a high risk of TEC and bleeding complications.

Antithrombotic Strategies for Patients With Peripheral Artery Disease: JACC Scientific Statement

Patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) experience major cardiovascular and limb events. Antithrombotic strategies including antiplatelets and anticoagulants remain a cornerstone of treatment and prevention. Recent trials have shown heterogeneity in the response to antithrombotic therapies in patients presenting primarily with PAD when compared to those presenting primarily with coronary artery disease. In addition, there is observed heterogeneity with regards to the effects of antiplatelets and anticoagulants with respect to different outcomes including cardiovascular and major adverse limb events. This, coupled with risks of bleeding, requires a patient-centered and holistic assessment of benefit-risk when selecting antithrombotic strategies for patients with PAD. A global multidisciplinary work group was convened to evaluate antithrombotic strategies in PAD and to summarize the current state of the art. Common clinical scenarios around antithrombotic decision making were provided. Finally, insights with regard to implementation future investigation were described.

Anticoagulants for the treatment of isolated lower limb superficial vein thrombosis a Bayesian network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

Assess the safety and efficacy of anticoagulants in treating isolated superficial vein thrombosis (iSVT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating anticoagulants in the treatment of iSVT. The primary endpoint of thrombotic complications encompassed any incident of iSVT progression/recurrence and the development of new-onset (deep vein thrombosis) DVT or (pulmonary embolism) PE.

RESULTS

Eight RCT's and 4721 patients treated once daily with either fondaparinux 2.5 mg, rivaroxaban 10 mg, therapeutic, intermediate, and prophylactic low molecular weight heparin (LMW) were included. While all anticoagulants displayed a statistically significant risk reduction compared to placebo in terms of thrombotic complications and iSVT progression/recurrence, only fondaparinux reduced the risk for DVT/PE. Additionally, fondaparinux exhibited enhanced efficacy in decreasing DVT/PE events relative to prophylactic and therapeutic LMWH. Furthermore, rivaroxaban and fondaparinux demonstrated superior outcomes in terms of preventing thrombotic complications compared to all three dosing regimens of LMWH without significant differences between the two, risk ratio RR 1.00(95%CI:0.51-1.92). SUCRA identified fondaparinux as the most effective treatment regarding thrombotic complications, (SUCRA,91.6) and DVT/PE, (SUCRA,96) and rivaroxaban in terms of iSVT progression/recurrence (SUCRA,94.68). Ultimately and despite certain model limitations, meta-regression analysis suggested a possible trend towards improved outcomes with longer treatment durations for thrombotic complications β = -0.34(95%CI:-16.39to12.23).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite inherent limitations such as variations in treatment durations and follow-up periods, this review displayed the efficacy of fondaparinux, rivaroxaban and LMWH in treating iSVT. The improved efficacy of fondaparinux over therapeutic LMWH in terms of DVT/PE outcomes necessitates cautious interpretation underscoring the need for further investigation through adequately powered RCTs.

Safety and efficacy of endovenous ablation in patients with a history of deep vein thrombosis

OBJECTIVE

Endovenous ablation is the standard of care for patients with symptomatic superficial venous insufficiency. For patients with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), concern exists for an increased risk of postprocedural complications, particularly venous thromboembolism. The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of endovenous thermal ablation in patients with a history of DVT.

METHODS

The national Vascular Quality Initiative Varicose Vein Registry was queried for superficial venous procedures performed from January 2014 to July 2021. Limbs treated with radiofrequency or laser ablation were compared between patients with and without a DVT history. The primary safety end point was incident DVT or endothermal heat-induced thrombosis (EHIT) II-IV in the treated limb at <3 months of follow-up. The secondary safety end points included any proximal thrombus extension (ie, EHIT I-IV), major bleeding, hematoma, pulmonary embolism, and death due to the procedure. The primary efficacy end point was technical failure (ie, recanalization at <1 week of follow-up). Secondary efficacy end points included the risk of recanalization over time and the postprocedural change in quality-of-life measures. Outcomes stratified by preoperative use of anticoagulation (AC) were also compared among those with prior DVT.

RESULTS

Among 33,892 endovenous thermal ablations performed on 23,572 individual patients aged 13 to 90 years, 1698 patients (7.2%) had a history of DVT. Patients with prior DVT were older (P < .001), had a higher body mass index (P < .001), were more likely to be male at birth (P < .001) and Black/African American (P < .001), and had greater CEAP classifications (P < .001). A history of DVT conferred a higher risk of new DVT (1.4% vs 0.8%; P = .03), proximal thrombus extension (2.3% vs 1.6%; P = .045), and bleeding (0.2% vs 0.04%; P = .03). EHIT II-IV, pulmonary embolism, and hematoma risk did not differ by DVT history (P = NS). No deaths from treatment occurred in either group. Continuing preoperative AC in patients with prior DVT did not change the risk of any complications after endovenous ablation (P = NS) but did confer an increased hematoma risk among all endovenous thermal ablations and surgeries (P = .001). Technical failure was similar between groups (2.0% vs 1.2%; P = .07), although a history of DVT conferred an increased recanalization risk over time (hazard ratio, 1.90; 95% confidence interval, 1.46, 2.46; P < .001). The groups had comparable improvements in postprocedural venous clinical severity scores and Heaviness, Aching, Swelling, Throbbing, and Itching scores (P = NS).

CONCLUSIONS

Endovenous thermal ablation for patients with a history of DVT was effective. However, appropriate patient counseling regarding a heightened DVT risk, albeit still low, is critical. The decision to continue or withhold AC preoperatively should be tailored on a case-by-case basis.

Shockwave Intravascular Lithotripsy Use in the Femoro-Popliteal Segment: Considerations From an Expert Pan-European Panel Regarding Best-Care Practice

PURPOSE

Produce expert recommendations regarding the optimal use of Shockwave intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) when treating femoro-popliteal steno-occlusive peripheral artery disease (PAD), guiding operators to use Shockwave IVL.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A modified 3-step Delphi process was used to gain consensus surrounding preoperative/intraoperative/postoperative considerations when using Shockwave IVL for femoro-popliteal PAD. This included a structured survey, focus-group (with qualitative thematic analysis of views expressed), and final confirmatory round; participants were recruited across Europe including the United Kingdom/Switzerland.

RESULTS

Following a review to inform an online survey, 25 experts took part in a survey (5 European countries, 2023), followed by a focus-group (15 participants), 9 interviews, and final confirmatory round. A list of recommendations was prepared where at least moderate-level or high-level agreement was reached (≥70% participants agreeing). The recommendations relate to the optimal preoperative imaging, preoperative preparation(s), intraoperative imaging and use of adjuncts, as well as postoperative course, when using Shockwave IVL.

CONCLUSION

A list of expert recommendations is provided guiding the optimal use of Shockwave IVL in femoro-popliteal PAD. This will help operators achieve better clinical outcomes.

CLINICAL IMPACT

This pan-European panel of experts using intravascular lithotripsy in routine peripheral arterial disease endovascular practice has provided important insights into best care practices before, during, and after such procedures. Several recommendations have been produced based on a structured consensus process to guide clinicians globally. This will improve and standardise the use of this technology in the femoro-popliteal arterial segment.

Cost Analysis of Target Lesion Revascularisation in Patients With Femoropopliteal In Stent Re-Stenosis or Occlusion: The COSTLY-TLR Study

OBJECTIVE

To report the cost of target lesion revascularisation procedures (TLR) for femoropopliteal peripheral artery disease (PAD) following stenting, from a healthcare payer's perspective.

METHODS

European multicentre study involving consecutive patients requiring femoropopliteal TLR (January 2017 - December 2021). The primary outcome was overall cost (euros) associated with a TLR procedure from presentation to discharge. Exact costs per constituent, clinical characteristics, and early outcomes were reported.

RESULTS

This study included 482 TLR procedures (retrospectively, 13 hospitals, six countries): 56% were female, mean age was 75 ± 2 years, 61% were Rutherford class 5 or 6, 67% had Tosaka class 3 disease, and 16% had common femoral or iliac involvement. A total of 52% were hybrid procedures and 6% involved open surgery only. Technical success was 70%, 30 day mortality rate was 1%, and the 30 day major amputation rate was 4%. Most costs were for operating time during the TLR (healthcare professionals' salaries, indirect and estate costs), with a mean of: €21 917 ± €2 110 for all procedures; €23 337 ± €8 920 for open procedures; €12 903 ± €3 108 for endovascular procedures; and €22 806 ± €3 977 for hybrid procedures. In a regression analysis, procedure duration was the main parameter associated with higher overall TLR costs (coefficient, 2.77; standard error, 0.88; p < .001). The mean cost per operating minute of TLR (indirect, estate costs, all salaried staff present included) was €177 and the mean cost per night stay in hospital (outside intensive care unit) was €356. The mean cost per overnight intensive care unit stay (minimum of 8 hours per night) was €1 193.

CONCLUSION

The main driver of the considerable peri-procedure costs associated with femoropopliteal TLR was procedure time.