Dual Antiplatelet Therapy After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention With Stent Implantation in Patients Taking Chronic Oral Anticoagulation

Management of left ventricular thrombus: a narrative review

Left ventricular thrombus (LVT) is a serious complication of acute myocardial infarction (MI) and also non-ischemic cardiomyopathies. We performed a narrative literature review, manual-search of reference lists of included articles and relevant reviews. Our literature review indicates that the incidence of LVT following acute MI has decreased, probably due to improvement in patient care as a result of better and earlier reperfusion techniques. Predictors of LVT include anterior MI, involvement of left ventricular (LV) apex (regardless of the coronary territory affected), LV akinesis or dyskinesis, reduced LV ejection fraction (LVEF), severe diastolic dysfunction and large infarct size. LVT is associated with increased risk of systemic embolism, stroke, cardiovascular events and death, and there is evidence that anticoagulant therapy for at least 3 months can reduce the risk of these events. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) has the highest diagnostic accuracy for LVT, followed by echocardiography with the use of echocardiographic contrast agents (ECAs). Although current guidelines suggest use of vitamin K antagonist (VKA) for a minimum of 3 to 6 months, there is growing evidence of the benefits of direct acting oral anticoagulants in treatment of LVT. Embolic events appear to occur even after resolution of LVT suggesting that anticoagulant therapy needs to be considered for a longer period in some cases. Recommendations for the use of triple therapy in the presence of the LVT are mostly based on extrapolation from outcome data in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and MI. We conclude that the presence of LVT is more likely in patients with anterior ST-segment elevation MI (STEMI) (involving the apex) and reduced ejection fraction (EF). LVT should be considered a marker of increased long-term thrombotic risk that may persist even after thrombus resolution. Ongoing clinical trials are expected to elucidate the best management strategies for patients with LVT.

Safety and efficacy of dual versus triple antithrombotic therapy in Patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention have indications for oral anticoagulation and dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with aspirin and a P2Y12 receptor inhibitor. The concurrent use of all three agents, termed triple oral antithrombotic therapy (TAT), increases the risk of bleeding. A number of prospective trials showed that the omission of aspirin mitigates the risk of bleeding without affecting major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The databases of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central databases were searched from inception to October 2019. Relevant randomized control trials comparing dual antithrombotic therapy (DAT) versus TAT were identified and a metanalysis was performed using random-effect model. The safety endpoints of interest were thrombolysis in myocardial infarction criteria (TIMI) major and minor bleeding, TIMI major bleeding, and intracranial bleeding. The efficacy endpoints of interest were MACE and individual components of MACE.

RESULTS

Six trials with 11,722 patients were included. For safety endpoint, DAT was associated with significantly lower incidence of TIMI major and minor bleeding [RR: 0.58, 95% CI 0.44-0.77, P = 0.0001], TIMI major bleeding [RR: 0.55, 95% CI 0.42-0.73, P < 0.0001] as well as intracranial bleeding [RR: 0.35, 95% CI 0.16-0.73, P = 0.006] compared with TAT. No significant difference was observed for MACE [RR: 0.96 (0.79-1.17) P = 0.71] or any of the individual components of MACE between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Omission of aspirin from TAT in patients with Atrial Fibrillation (AF) after percutaneous coronary intervention is associated with lower risk of bleeding without compromising the efficacy in terms of mortality and cardiovascular thrombotic events.

Thromboresistance of Polyurethanes Modified with PEO-Silane Amphiphiles

Surface-induced thrombosis is problematic in blood-contacting devices composed of silicones or polyurethanes (PUs). Poly(ethylene oxide)-silane amphiphiles (PEO-SA) are previously shown effective as surface modifying additives (SMAs) in silicones for enhanced thromboresistance. This study investigates PEO-SAs as SMAs in a PU at various concentrations: 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 µmol g^-1 PU. PEO-SA modified PUs are evaluated for their mechanical properties, water-driven surface restructuring, and adhesion resistance against a human fibrinogen (HF) solution as well as whole human blood. Stability is assessed by monitoring hydrophilicity, water uptake, and mass loss following air- or aqueous-conditioning. PEO-SA modified PUs do not demonstrate plasticization, as evidenced by minimal changes in glass transition temperature, modulus, tensile strength, and percent strain at break. These also show a concentration-dependent increase in hydrophilicity that is sustained following air- and aqueous-conditioning for concentrations ≥25 µmol g^-1 . Additionally, water uptake and mass loss are minimal at all concentrations. Although protein resistance is not enhanced versus an HF solution, PEO-SA modified PUs have significantly reduced protein adsorption and platelet adhesion from human blood at concentrations ≥10 µmol g^-1 . Overall, this study demonstrates the versatility of PEO-SAs as SMAs in PU, which leads to enhanced and sustained hydrophilicity as well as thromboresistance.

Practice patterns of dual antiplatelet therapy after lower extremity endovascular interventions

Antiplatelet therapy is commonly prescribed following endovascular interventions. However, there is limited data regarding the regimen and duration of antiplatelet therapy following lower extremity endovascular interventions. The aim of this study was to investigate the practice patterns of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after lower extremity endovascular interventions. We identified all patients who received an endovascular intervention in the Vascular Study Group of New England (VSGNE) registry from 2010 through 2018. The antiplatelet regimen was examined at the time of discharge and follow-up. Variables predicting discharge antiplatelet therapy and duration of antiplatelet therapy were investigated. There were 13,510 (57.69%) patients discharged on DAPT, 8618 (36.80%) patients discharged on single antiplatelet therapy, and 1292 (5.51%) patients discharged without antiplatelet therapy. Patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), prior vascular bypass and endovascular intervention, preoperative statin use, stent placement compared with angioplasty, and femoropopliteal and tibial treatment were associated with higher odds of being discharged with DAPT compared with no antiplatelet therapy and single antiplatelet therapy. Of the patients discharged on DAPT who were followed up at 9–12 months and 21–24 months, 56.49% and 49.63% remained on DAPT, respectively. Only a narrow margin of the patient majority undergoing endovascular interventions was discharged with DAPT, suggesting that only a small proportion of patients undergoing endovascular intervention remain on DAPT long-term. As the number of peripheral vascular interventions continues to grow, further studies are crucial to identify the optimal duration of DAPT.

Antithrombotic therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation and coronary artery disease

Atrial fibrillation and coronary artery disease are commonly coexisting conditions that necessitate the use of an oral anticoagulant as well as dual antiplatelet therapy. Commonly referred to as triple oral antithrombotic therapy (TT), this helps prevent ischemic stroke and myocardial infarction but comes at the expense of an increased risk of bleeding. There is a growing body of evidence that the omission of aspirin from TT has the same preventive efficacy in terms of major adverse cardiacvascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) with significantly lower bleeding events. The combination of antiplatelet agents and direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) is a matter of ongoing research. However, initial studies showed favorable safety profile of DOAC over vitamin K antagonist in combination with antiplatelet agents.

Vitamin K antagonist vs direct oral anticoagulants with antiplatelet therapy in dual or triple therapy after percutaneous coronary intervention or acute coronary syndrome in atrial fibrillation: Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

The combination of vitamin K antagonists (VKA) for atrial fibrillation (AF) and antiplatelet agents following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is associated with an increased bleeding risk.

HYPOTHESIS

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) are associated with a greater safety profile but the optimal antithrombotic treatment strategy, especially when considering ischemic events, is unclear.

METHODS

We performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing outcomes in AF patients following PCI and/or acute coronary syndrome (ACS) when treated with DOAC vs VKA, both in combination with one (dual) or two (triple) antiplatelet regimens. A systematic review was performed by searches of electronic databases MEDLINE (source PubMed) and the Cochrane Controlled Clinical Trials Register Database as well as Cardiology annual meetings. Three studies were finally included.

RESULTS

Compared to VKA triple therapy, the use of DOAC was associated with a decreased risk of any bleeding (relative risk [RR] 0.68 [0.62; 0.74]), major bleeding (RR 0.61 [0.51; 0.75]) and intracranial bleeding (RR 0.33 [0.17; 0.66]) and similar rates of the composite efficacy endpoint (RR 1.0 [0.87; 1.14]) and its components. Similar and consistent results were observed with both dual and triple therapy including a DOAC compared to VKA.

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis supports the use of dual therapy combining a DOAC and clopidogrel as the default regimen in most AF patients after PCI and/or ACS.

Rising Events and Improved Outcomes of Gastrointestinal Bleed With Shock in USA: A 12-year National Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Limited information is available based on single-center studies on trends of incidence and outcomes in gastrointestinal (GI) bleed with shock.

METHODS

We analyzed data from 2002 to 2013 National Inpatient Sample. Using ICD-9 codes we identified 6.4 million hospital discharges of GI bleed from National Inpatient Sample database. Events were analyzed based on type of GI bleed, in-hospital mortality, hemodynamic status, and use of blood products.

RESULTS

GI bleed with shock results in higher hospital mortality (20.77% with shock vs. 2.6% without shock). Between 2002 and 2013, there has been an increase in the percentage of upper and lower GI bleed with shock (1.35% to 4.92% and 1.49% to 3.06%) along with a reduction in mortality in both upper GI bleed with shock (26.9% to 13.8%) and lower GI bleed with shock (54.7% to 19.7%). Consistent with the rise in GI bleed with shock was an increase in blood product utilization. Packed red blood cell (pRBC) transfusion was associated with reduction in mortality in both nonvariceal upper GI bleed with shock (18.3% without pRBC vs. 13.9% receiving pRBC) and lower GI bleed with shock (36.05% without pRBC vs. 22.13% receiving pRBC), but did not affect mortality in variceal upper GI bleed with shock (31.79% vs. 32.22%).

CONCLUSIONS

GI bleed with shock carries a higher mortality and have been steadily increasing from 2002 to 2013. pRBC transfusion was associated in improved mortality in GI bleed with shock except variceal bleed.

Antithrombotic Approaches in Acute Coronary Syndromes: Optimizing Benefit vs Bleeding Risks

It is estimated that in the United States, each year, approximately 620,000 persons will experience an acute coronary syndrome and approximately 70% of these will have non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome. Cardiovascular disease still accounts for 1 of every 3 deaths in the United States, and there is an urgent need to improve the prognosis of patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome. Cardiovascular mortality and ischemic complications are common after acute coronary syndrome, and the advent of newer antithrombotic therapies has reduced ischemic complications, but at the expense of greater bleeding. The new antithrombotic agents also raise the challenge of choosing between multiple potential therapeutic combinations to minimize recurrent ischemia without a concomitant increase in bleeding, a decision that often varies according to an individual patient's relative propensity for ischemia versus hemorrhage. In this review, we will synthesize the available information to arm health care providers with the contemporary knowledge on antithrombotic therapy and individualize treatment decisions.

Effects of the short-term application of pantoprazole combined with aspirin and clopidogrel in the treatment of acute STEMI

The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of the short-term application of pantoprazole on the co-treatment of acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) with aspirin and clopidogrel. A total of 207 acute patients showing primary symptoms of STEMI, who received successful emergent percutaneous coronary intervention treatment during hospitalization were randomly divided into two groups. In the test group proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), the patients were treated with a combination of aspirin and clopidogrel and pantoprazole, while those in the control group were treated only with aspirin and clopidogrel. Gastrointestinal bleeding events and major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) were observed in the two groups. Gastrointestinal bleeding events of the two groups mostly occurred within the first week of hospitalization, although the incidence in the PPIs group was significantly higher than that in the control group (p<0.05). However, no significant difference was observed for the incidence of MACEs between the two groups (p>0.05). In conclusion, the results of the present study have shown that the short-term application of pantoprazole combined with aspirin and clopidogrel does not increase the incidence of MACEs in patients with acute STEMI, reduces the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, and is thus worth promoting clinically, particularly for high-risk groups.

Adherence to antiplatelet therapy after percutaneous coronary intervention: a population study in a region of Italy

AIMS

We evaluated adherence to dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for patients in the Lazio region of Italy and the impact of discharge ward type on therapy discontinuation.

METHODS

From the Hospital Information System, we selected patients who underwent PCI from 2006 to 2007 and obtained Regional Drug Dispense Registry data for antiplatelet drugs prescribed for 12 months after discharge. Appropriate therapy was defined as DAPT with prescribed daily doses for each drug covering at least 75% of each individual follow-up period. The association between discharge ward type and antiplatelet therapy adherence at 12 months post discharge was estimated using multilevel logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 11 186 patients with PCI were included, and fewer than half (4984; 44.56%) were on adequate DAPT. Only 2930 of 5390 patients (54.36%) with DAPT in the first 6 months post discharge continued DAPT in the second 6 months. Patients discharged from cardiology units or intensive coronary care units were more likely (odds ratio = 1.26; P = 0.003) to receive appropriate antiplatelet therapy, and elderly patients were less likely (odds ratio = 0.65; P < 0.001) to do so.

CONCLUSION

The proportion of PCI patients receiving appropriate DAPT after discharge is suboptimal in this region, and elderly patients are less likely to receive appropriate therapy. These findings could be important for improving patient management and ensuring adherence to clinical guidelines and indicate the need for a systematic evaluation of the appropriateness of postdischarge therapy.

Managing Antiplatelet Therapy and Anticoagulants in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease and Atrial Fibrillation

Oral anticoagulation (OAC) is essential in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Interestingly coronary artery disease coexists in 20-30% of these patients.[1,2] Balancing the risk of bleeding and thromboembolism is very important for the management of patients on OAC, especially than when such patients require percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Lack of data and clear societal guidelines for peri-procedural and post-procedural management of anticoagulated patients has resulted in diverse clinical practices among clinicians, hospitals, and countries. Furthermore with expanding number of available oral antiplatelet and anticoagulant agents, the uncertainty regarding optimal combination therapy in this growing pool of the patients with overlapping clinical indications is also growing. Given the high proportion of patients with atherothrombosis and requiring OAC for conditions particularly like AF, it is important that physicians are aware of the clinical implications and management of these overlapping syndromes. In this article we discuss; this evolving dilemma of peri-procedural and post-procedural management of anticoagulated patient's, burden of the disease, available data, risk factors that could identify high risk patients and propose a well-balanced management strategy.

Deciding on a combination of anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs

Patients being treated for atrial fibrillation may develop cardiovascular disease before or after the onset of their heart rhythm problem, and may require a combination of antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs. This article describes the evidence for the combinations used to treat acute coronary syndrome in patients with atrial fibrillation.

Timing of the resumption of antithrombotic agents following surgical evacuation of chronic subdural hematomas: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Antithrombosis (AT), defined here as either antiplatelets or anticoagulants, is a significant risk factor for the development of chronic subdural hematomas (cSDHs). Resuming AT following the evacuation of cSDH is a highly variable practice, with scant evidence in the literature for guidance. Here, a retrospective analysis of a cohort of patients from a single institution undergoing surgical drainage of cSDH was performed to evaluate postoperative complications and determine the optimal timing of the resumption of common antithrombotic agents.

METHODS

This retrospective analysis was performed on 479 patients undergoing surgical evacuation of cSDH at St. Michael's Hospital over a 5-year period (2007-2012). The collected variables included the type of AT agent, indications for AT, timing and type of postoperative complications, and the restart intervals for the AT agents, when available. Postoperative complications were classified as major hemorrhages, minor hemorrhages, or thromboembolic events.

RESULTS

Among all 479 study patients, 71 experienced major hemorrhage (14.8%), 110 experienced minor hemorrhage (23.0%), and 8 experienced thromboembolism (1.67%) postoperatively. Patients on any type of preoperative AT regimen were at a higher risk of major hemorrhage (19.0% vs 10.9%; OR 1.93; 95% CI 1.15-2.71; p = 0.014). The type of AT agent did not affect the frequency of any postoperative complications. Patients on any preoperative AT regimen experienced earlier postoperative major hemorrhages (mean 16.2 vs 26.5 days; p = 0.052) and thromboembolic events (mean 2.7 vs 51.5 days; p = 0.036) than those patients without a history of AT; the type of AT agent did not affect timing of complications. Patients who were restarted on any AT therapy postoperatively were at decreased risk of major rebleeding following resumption than those patients who were not restarted (OR 0.06; 95% CI 0.02-0.2; p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with a history of preoperative AT experienced thromboembolic complications significantly earlier than those patients without AT, which peaked at 3 days postoperatively with no increase in hemorrhage risk when AT was restarted. Cursory evidence is presented that shows resuming AT early following the surgical evacuation of cSDH at 3 days postoperatively may be safe. However, much larger prospective studies are required prior to providing any definitive recommendations regarding the optimal timing and method of resumption of individual agents.

Incidence and Predictors of Left Ventricular Thrombus After Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Anterior ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND

The role of warfarin in anterior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) complicated by left ventricular (LV) dysfunction in patients treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and dual antiplatelet therapy is unclear. Warfarin may prevent cardioembolic events but significantly increases bleeding in the setting of dual antiplatelet therapy.

HYPOTHESIS

The incidence of LV thrombus in anterior STEMI patients treated with PCI is low, and clinical predictors might be valuable in determining patients at risk.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective, single-center study of 687 consecutive patients with anterior STEMI treated with PCI from 2006 to 2013. Baseline variables were evaluated in 310 patients at high risk for LV thrombus based on echocardiographic criteria. Patients with definite, probable, and no LV thrombus were compared by ANOVA, χ(2), or t test where appropriate. Logistic regression analysis was performed.

RESULTS

The incidence of LV thrombus was 15% (n = 47 probable/definite thrombus). Cardiac arrest was the only independent characteristic associated with increased risk of LV thrombus (odds ratio [OR]: 4.06, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.3-12.7). Trends were observed for a lower risk in cardiogenic shock (OR: 0.33, 95% CI: 0.10-1.05) and aspirin use at baseline (OR: 0.43, 95% CI: 0.17-1.1). Treatment variables associated with LV thrombus included unfractionated heparin use post-PCI (OR: 2.43, 95% CI: 1.16-5.1) and use of balloon angioplasty without stent.

CONCLUSIONS

In contemporary practice with primary PCI, definite LV thrombus following anterior STEMI with LV dysfunction is challenging to predict. Further investigation is needed to determine if there is a subset of patients that should be treated with prophylactic warfarin.

Prevalence and Impact of High Platelet Reactivity in Chronic Kidney Disease

Background—

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with increased rates of adverse events after percutaneous coronary intervention. We sought to determine the impact of CKD on platelet reactivity in clopidogrel-treated patients and whether high platelet reactivity (HPR) confers a similar or differential risk for adverse events among patients with CKD and non-CKD.

Methods and Results—

We performed a post hoc analysis of the Assessment of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy With Drug-Eluting Stents (ADAPT-DES) registry, which included 8582 patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention with drug-eluting stents and platelet function testing using the VerifyNow assay. We compared HPR and its impact on ischemic and bleeding events >2 years among patients with CKD and non-CKD. Patients with CKD (n=1367) were older, more often female, diabetic, and had lower ejection fraction compared with their non-CKD counterparts (n=7043). Although HPR prevalence increased with worsening renal function in unadjusted analyses, these associations were no longer present after adjustment. Major adverse cardiac event rates at 2 years among those without CKD or HPR, HPR alone, CKD alone, and both CKD and HPR were 9.0%, 11.2%, 13.3%, and 17.5%, respectively ( P <0.001). Associations between HPR and adverse events were uniform across CKD strata without evidence of interaction.

Conclusions—

HPR is more common among those with versus without CKD, an association that is attributable to confounding risk factors that are more prevalent in CKD. The impact of HPR on ischemic and bleeding events is similar irrespective of CKD status.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov . Unique identifier: NCT00638794.

Comparison of the usefulness of enoxaparin versus warfarin for prevention of left ventricular mural thrombus after anterior wall acute myocardial infarction

Left ventricular (LV) thrombus is one of the most common complications in patients with anterior acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and LV dysfunction. Although anticoagulation is frequently prescribed, data regarding the appropriate drug, duration, risks, and effect on echocardiographic indices of thrombus are lacking. Moreover, given the difficulty in obtaining adequate anticoagulation with warfarin, it is possible that short-term treatment with a more predictable agent would be effective. We randomized 60 patients at high risk of developing LV mural thrombus (anterior acute myocardial infarction with Q waves and ejection fraction≤40%) to receive either enoxaparin 1 mg/kg (maximum 100 mg) subcutaneously every 12 hours for 30 days or traditional anticoagulation (intravenous heparin followed by oral warfarin for 3 months). Clinical evaluations and transthoracic echocardiograms were obtained at baseline, in-hospital, and at 3.5 months. There were no differences between the groups regarding baseline demographics, acute echocardiographic findings, and in-hospital outcomes. The length of hospital stay tended to be shorter for the enoxaparin group (4.6 vs 5.6; p=0.066) and the corresponding hospital costs ($25,837 vs $34,666; p=0.18). At 3 months, bleeding and thromboembolic events were rare and similar between enoxaparin and warfarin groups. Although more patients had probable mural thrombus in the enoxaparin group compared with warfarin at 3.5 months (15% vs 4%; p=0.35), this was not significantly different. In conclusion, the use of enoxaparin tends to shorten hospitalization and lower cost of care. However, at 3.5 months, there appears to be numerically higher (but statistically insignificant) rates of LV thrombus in the enoxaparin group.

Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Patients Who Have an Indication for Oral Anticoagulation - an Evidence-based Approach to Antithrombotic Therapy

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) is required following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to prevent stent thrombosis. The optimal antithrombotic therapy following PCI for patients with an indication for long-term oral anticoagulation (OAC) is uncertain. DAPT and OAC, a combination known as 'triple therapy', reduces cardiovascular event rates but is associated with a substantial risk of bleeding. Recent data suggest that the duration of DAPT (and thereby triple therapy in those who also require OAC) can be limited to 1-3 months following new-generation drug-eluting stent deployment, and that aspirin may be omitted from triple therapy, without increasing the rate of ischaemic cardiovascular events. The increasing use of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants and new antiplatelet agents (prasugrel and ticagrelor) has further complicated antithrombotic prescribing. This article aims to provide a summary of the evidence regarding antithrombotic therapy after PCI in patients who have an indication for OAC and to provide a framework to aid clinical decision-making in this area.

Optimizing selection of antithrombotic therapy in patients requiring PCI and long term anticoagulation

There remains clinical equipoise in the appropriate selection of antiplatelet therapy for the patient on long-term anticoagulation requiring percutaneous coronary intervention. Since most of these patients represent an increasingly aging population, the significant risk of thromboembolism and stent thrombosis must be weighed against the risk of major bleeding. This article reviews the current state of evidence to provide a framework for the practicing clinician.

Atrial fibrillation and coronary artery disease: which antithrombotic treatment strategy?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The optimal antithrombotic therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation and coronary artery disease is controversial. The benefit of the combination of antithrombotic therapies remains debatable, and, as the bleeding risk is substantial, this calls for knowledge of the duration, and which and how many agents should be used.

RECENT FINDINGS

The first randomized trial to challenge current recommendations of triple therapy (oral anticoagulation plus clopidogrel plus aspirin) examined patients on warfarin undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention with stent implantation. A reduced risk of any bleeding (hazard ratio 0.36) was found with combination of clopidogrel compared with triple therapy without increasing major cardiovascular events. In real-life patients, a nationwide Danish registry supported these findings, and, relative to triple therapy, no significant difference was found for recurrent myocardial infarction when adding only clopidogrel (hazard ratio 0.69) or aspirin (hazard ratio 0.96) to vitamin K antagonist. However, the latter regimen was associated with significantly increased risk of death.

SUMMARY

Within 1 year after myocardial infarction and/or percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with atrial fibrillation, current consensus papers endorse use of dual antiplatelet therapy on top of oral anticoagulation. A regimen consisting of oral anticoagulation and clopidogrel (without aspirin) could provide an alternative from a benefit and safety perspective.

Combining antiplatelet and antithrombotic therapy (triple therapy): what are the risks and benefits?

Most patients with mechanical heart valves and many patients with atrial fibrillation will require long-term anticoagulation therapy. For patients with mechanical prosthetic valves, only warfarin is indicated. However, for patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation who are at increased risk for embolic stroke, one of the newer antithrombotic medications, such as rivaroxaban, dabigatran, and apixaban, also can be used. Patients with indications for antithrombotic therapy often will have coexisting vascular disease, such as coronary artery disease, requiring concomitant antiplatelet therapy with aspirin alone or more commonly with a dual antiplatelet regimen, aspirin and clopidogrel, or prasugrel or ticagrelor. The risks and benefits of this approach are still not well defined, and current guidelines have included recommendations based primarily on expert opinion.

Combined use of warfarin and oral P2Y12 inhibitors in patients with atrial fibrillation and acute coronary syndrome

BACKGROUND

Although atrial fibrillation (AF) occurs frequently in patients hospitalized with acute coronary syndrome (ACS), strategies for prevention of thromboembolic complications are poorly characterized.

HYPOTHESIS

We sought to examine exposure to warfarin and P2Y12 inhibitors and clinical outcomes among patients with AF and ACS.

METHODS

Patients age >65 years hospitalized with a primary diagnosis of ACS and a secondary diagnosis of AF between 2007 and 2010 were identified in the Medicare 5% sample. Medication exposure was ascertained during a 90-day period following the index discharge using Medicare drug claims. Among patients who were alive and not readmitted during the ascertainment period, we examined the cumulative incidence of all-cause mortality and all-cause readmission by medication exposure at 1 year.

RESULTS

A total of 2509 Medicare beneficiaries met the inclusion criteria. Among the 1633 patients (65%) who were alive and not readmitted during the 90-day ascertainment period, 24.0% received warfarin, 38.9% received P2Y12 inhibitors, 10.2% received combination therapy, and 26.8% received neither therapy. Readmission rates were high in all groups at 1 year (warfarin, 47.5%; P2Y12 inhibitors, 46.6%; combination therapy, 38.0%; and neither therapy, 39.3%), and the overall 1-year mortality rate was 12.5%.

CONCLUSIONS

Among Medicare beneficiaries with AF and ACS, combination therapy with warfarin and P2Y12 inhibitor was uncommon during the 90-day ascertainment period, and more than one-quarter of patients had no claims for warfarin or P2Y12 inhibitors. Rates of all-cause readmission and mortality within 1 year of hospitalization for ACS were high.

Drug eluting stent implantation in patients requiring concomitant vitamin K antagonist therapy. One-year outcome of the worldwide e-SELECT registry

BACKGROUND

Outcome of sirolimus-eluting stent (SES) in patients treated with an antivitamin K (VKA) agent before the PCI procedure is unknown.

METHODS

A total of 7651 patients were selected among 15,147 recipients of SES, included in the worldwide e-SELECT registry, only from those centers which included at least one patient requiring VKA: 296 were pretreated with a VKA agent (VKA group), whereas 7355 patients from the same enrolling medical centers were not (NON-VKA group). The rates of 1) major adverse cardiac events (MACE), including all-cause deaths, myocardial infarction (MI) and target lesion revascularization, 2) stent thrombosis (ST) and 3) major bleeding (MB) in the 2 study groups were compared at 1, 6 and 12 months.

RESULTS

The patients in VKA group were on average older as compared to those in NON-VKA group (67.7 ± 9.9 vs.62.9 ± 10.7, P<0.001). The indications for pre-procedural anticoagulation were atrial fibrillation in 177 (59.8%), presence of a prosthetic valve in 21 (7.1%), embolization of cardiac origin in 17 (5.7%), pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis in 17 (5.7%), and miscellaneous diagnoses in 64 (21.6%) patients. At 1 year, the rates of MACE and MB were higher in the VKA vs. the NON-VKA group (8.3% and 3% vs. 5.3% and 1.2%, P<0.04 and P<0.002, respectively). The 1-year rates of definite and probable ST were remarkably low in both groups (0.38% vs. 1.1%, p=0.4).

CONCLUSIONS

Selected patients anticoagulated with VKA agent may safely undergo SES implantation. Those patients may receive a variety of APT regimen at the cost of a moderate increased risk of MB.

Triple Antiplatelet Therapy and Combinations with Oral Anticoagulants After Stent Implantation

Triple oral anticoagulation or triple antiplatelet therapies may be administered for various reasons. They reduce cardiac complications following percutaneous coronary intervention and stroke or other thromboembolic phenomenon in conditions such as atrial fibrillation. There is an elevated risk of severe bleeding, so it is necessary to balance risk and benefits. Newer oral anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs may be considered; the number of options is increasing. This article examines triple therapies and the efficacy and safety of combinations of traditional anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs, and reviews clinical trial data on novel agents. Guidelines to inform clinical decision-making are presented.

Racial differences in the prevalence and outcomes of atrial fibrillation among patients hospitalized with heart failure

Background

The intersection of heart failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation (AF) is common, but the burden of AF among black patients with HF is poorly characterized. We sought to determine the prevalence of AF, characteristics, in‐hospital outcomes, and warfarin use associated with AF in patients hospitalized with HF as a function of race.

Methods and Results

We analyzed data on 135 494 hospitalizations from January 2006 through January 2012 at 276 hospitals participating in the American Heart Association's Get With The Guidelines HF Program. Multivariable logistic regression models using generalized estimating equations approach for risk‐adjusted comparison of AF prevalence, in‐hospital outcomes, and warfarin use. In this HF population, 53 389 (39.4%) had AF. Black patients had markedly less AF than white patients (20.8% versus 44.8%, P<0.001). Adjusting for risk factors and hospital characteristics, black race was associated with significantly lower odds of AF (adjusted odds ratio 0.52, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.55, P<0.0001). There were no racial differences in in‐hospital mortality; however, black patients had a longer length of stay relative to white patients. Black patients compared with white patients with AF were less likely to be discharged on warfarin (adjusted odds ratio 0.76, 95% CI 0.69 to 0.85, P<0.001).

Conclusions

Despite having many risk factors for AF, black patients, relative to white patients hospitalized for HF, had a lower prevalence of AF and lower prescription of guideline‐recommended warfarin therapy.

Balancing between bleeding and thromboembolism after percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with atrial fibrillation. Could triple anticoagulant therapy be a solution?

Introduction

Atrial fibrillation (AF) has nowadays become a common disease as it comes along with medical procedures propagation in the ageing population with coexistent diseases. Hence a need for use of combined anticoagulant and antithrombotic therapy has arisen. According to the 2010 ESC guidelines on myocardial revascularization, short-term triple antithrombotic therapy after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) should be given if compelling indications exist.

Aim

To assess bleeding and thromboembolic events depending on the antithrombotic regimen in short- and long-term follow-up in patients with AF after PCI with stent implantation.

Material and methods

A 12-month prospective, non-randomized registry was conducted in the 3^rd Department of Cardiology in the Upper Silesian Medical Center in Katowice from October 2008 to April 2011. One hundred and four patients in two groups – on triple therapy (TT; aspirin + clopidogrel + vitamin K antagonists (VKA; warfarin or acenocoumarol) n = 44) and on dual therapy (DT; aspirin + clopidogrel; n = 60) – were assessed 30 days and 12 months after angioplasty.

Results

All bleeding events occurred more often in the triple anticoagulated group in 30 days (TT 20.5% vs. DT 6.7%; p = 0.03) and after 12 months (TT 38.9% vs. DT 17.2%, p = 0.09). The difference in major bleeding events was not significant after 30 days (TT 9.1% vs. DT 3.3%; p = NS) or 12 months (TT 11.1% vs. DT 6.9%; p = NS). Thromboembolic events after 30 days (DT 5.0% vs. TT 2.3%) and 12 months (TT 11.1% vs. DT 3.4%) were comparable. The percentage of deaths after 30 days (DT 1.7% vs. TT 0.0%, p = NS) increased after 12 months (DT 13.8% vs. TT 0.0%, p = 0.09).

Conclusions

Significantly higher risk of bleeding on TT becomes blurred by a tendency to increased mortality in patients on DT.

Triple oral antithrombotic therapy in atrial fibrillation and coronary artery stenting

Patients with atrial fibrillation affected by an acute coronary syndrome have indications for oral anticoagulation and dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and a P2Y12 adenosine diphosphate receptor inhibitor after coronary artery stenting. The concurrent use of all 3 agents, termed triple oral antithrombotic therapy, significantly increases the risk of bleeding. To date, there is a lack of evidence on the proper combination and duration of anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents in patients with indications for both therapies. As such, care has been guided by expert opinion, and there is wide variation in clinician practice. In this review, the latest evidence on the risks and benefits of triple oral antithrombotic therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation after coronary artery stenting is summarized. We discuss the clinical risk scores useful in guiding the prediction of stroke, bleeding, and stent thrombosis. Additionally, we highlight where additional evidence is needed to determine the proper balance of anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents in this patient population.

Drug-drug interactions in cardiovascular catheterizations and interventions

Patients presenting for invasive cardiovascular procedures are frequently taking a variety of medications aimed to treat risk factors related to heart and vascular disease. During the procedure, antithrombotic, sedative, and analgesic medications are commonly needed, and after interventional procedures, new medications are often added for primary and secondary prevention of ischemic events. In addition to these prescribed medications, the use of over-the-counter drugs and supplements continues to rise. Most elderly patients, for example, are taking 5 or more prescribed medications and 1 or more supplements, and they often have some degree of renal insufficiency. This polypharmacy might result in drug-drug interactions that affect the balance of thrombotic and bleeding events during the procedure and during long-term treatment. Mixing of anticoagulants, for instance, might lead to periprocedural bleeding, and this is associated with an increase in long-term adverse events. Furthermore, the range of possible interactions with thienopyridine antiplatelets is of concern, because these drugs are essential to immediate and extended interventional success. The practical challenges in the field are great-some drug-drug interactions are likely present yet not well understood due to limited assays, whereas other interactions have well-described biological effects but seem to be more theoretical, because there is little to no clinical impact. Interventional providers need to be attentive to the potential for drug-drug interaction, the associated harm, and the appropriate action, if any, to minimize the potential for medication-related adverse events. This review will focus on drug-drug interactions that have the potential to affect procedural success, either through increases in immediate complications or compromising longer-term outcome.

Prognosis of patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention receiving drug eluting stents

BACKGROUND

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is increasingly prevalent in elderly patients and adversely affects clinical outcomes after coronary artery bypass grafting, non-cardiac surgery or myocardial infarction. Aim of the present analysis was to investigate the prognostic impact of AF in patients undergoing drug eluting stent (DES) implantation during a 1-year follow-up.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

5,772 consecutive patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention were enrolled into the German Drug Eluting Stent Registry (DES.DE) and were followed for 12 months. Of these 455 had AF and 5,317 in sinus rhythm served as controls. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to determine the risk of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) and bleeding complications.

RESULTS

Patients with AF were older (71.3 ± 7.6 vs. 64.7 ± 10.5 years) and had a higher prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, renal insufficiency as well as more prior bypass surgery, stroke and peripheral arterial disease. Cardiogenic shock (2.9 vs. 1.4 %; p < 0.05), left ventricular ejection fraction ≤40 % (21.0 vs. 11.4 %; p < 0.0001) and triple vessel disease (44.4 vs. 37.9 %; p < 0.01) were more frequent in patients with AF than in controls. MACCE (OR 2.08, 95 % CI 1.56-2.77), total mortality (OR 3.27, 95 % CI 2.32-4.62) and non-fatal stroke (OR 2.03, 95 % CI 1.03-4.00) as well as bleeding complications (OR 1.88, 95 % CI 1.13-3.12) during the 1-year follow-up were more frequent in patients with AF (univariate analysis). In multivariate analyses adjusting for covariates determined to be relevant at baseline, the risk for total mortality remained elevated (OR 1.63, 95 % CI 1.05-2.52).

CONCLUSIONS

AF is an important predictor of long-term mortality in patients undergoing DES implantation.

Triple antithrombotic therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing coronary artery stenting: hovering among bleeding risk, thromboembolic events, and stent thrombosis

Dual antiplatelet treatment with aspirin and clopidogrel is the antithrombotic treatment recommended after an acute coronary syndrome and/or coronary artery stenting. The evidence for optimal antiplatelet therapy for patients, in whom long-term treatment oral anticoagulation is mandatory, is however scarce. To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the various antithrombotic strategies adopted in this population, we reviewed the available evidence on the management of patients receiving oral anticoagulation, such as a vitamin-k-antagonists, referred for coronary artery stenting.Atrial fibrillation is the most frequent indication for oral anticoagulation. The need of starting antiplatelet therapy in this clinical scenario raises concerns about the combination to choose: triple therapy with warfarin, aspirin, and a thienopyridine being the most frequent and advised. The safety of this regimen appeared suboptimal because of an increased risk in hemorrhagic complications. On the other hand, the combination of oral anticoagulation and an antiplatelet agent is suboptimal in preventing thromboembolic events and stent thrombosis; dual antiplatelet therapy may be considered only when a high hemorrhagic risk and low thromboembolic risk are perceived. Indeed, the need for prolonged multiple-drug antithrombotic therapy increases the bleeding risks when drug eluting stents are used.Since current evidence derives mainly from small, single-center and retrospective studies, large-scale prospective multicenter studies are urgently needed.

The risk of bleeding of triple therapy with vitamin K-antagonists, aspirin and clopidogrel after coronary stent implantation: Facts and questions

Background

Triple therapy (TT) with vitamin K-antagonists (VKA), aspirin and clopidogrel is the recommended antithrombotic treatment following percutaneous coronary intervention with stent implantation (PCI-S) in patients with an indication for oral anticoagulation. TT is associated with an increased risk of bleeding, but available evidence is flawed by important limitations, including the limited size and the retrospective design of most of the studies, as well as the rare reporting of the incidence of in-hospital bleeding and the treatment which was actually ongoing at the time of bleeding. Since the perceived high bleeding risk of TT may deny patients effective strategies, the determination of the true safety profile of TT is of paramount importance.

Methods

All the 27 published studies where the incidence of bleeding at various time points during follow-up has been reported separately for patients on TT were reviewed, and the weakness of the data was analyzed.

Results

The absolute incidence of major bleeding upon discharge at in-hospital, ≤ 1 month, 6 months, 12 months and ≥ 12 months was: 3.3% ± 1.9%, 5.1% ± 6.7%, 8.0% ± 5.2%, 9.0% ± 8.0, and 6.2% ± 7.8%, respectively, and not substantially different from that observed in previous studies with prolonged dual antiplatelet treatment with aspirin and clopidogrel.

Conclusions

While waiting for the ongoing, large-scale, registries and clinical trials to clarify the few facts and to answer the many questions regarding the risk of bleeding of TT, this treatment should not be denied to patients with an indication for VKA undergoing PCI-S provided that the proper measures and cautions are implemented.

Long-term safety of drug-eluting stents in patients on warfarin treatment

BACKGROUND

The safety of drug-eluting stents (DES) in patients on long-term warfarin treatment has been questioned due to high risk of bleeding complications during prolonged triple (aspirin, clopidogrel, and warfarin) antithrombotic therapy.

METHODS

We analysed the long-term outcome of 415 consecutive warfarin-treated patients who underwent DES (n = 191) or bare-metal (n = 224) stenting in six hospitals.

RESULTS

The mean duration of triple therapy was longer (4.2 ± 3.1 versus 2.1 ± 1.8 months; P < 0.001) in the DES group. The incidence of major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events was comparable in the DES and bare-metal groups (39.8% versus 42.4%; P = 0.59) during a median follow-up of 3.5 years. Similarly, major bleeding events occurred equally often in both study groups (14.7% versus 12.9%). Six patients in the DES group and seven patients in the bare-metal group suffered stent thrombosis (3.1% versus 3.1%). In the propensity score analyses of 101 matched pairs, the outcome was similar in the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Selective use of DES with a short triple therapy seems to be safe in patients with warfarin therapy. The prognosis of this fragile patient population is quite poor, and major bleeding events are common irrespective of stent type.

Impact of periprocedural atrial fibrillation on short-term clinical outcomes following percutaneous coronary intervention

There are few data on the incidence and clinical outcomes of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) treated in the era of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We analyzed 30-day clinical outcomes in 3,307 consecutive patients with and without AF (sinus rhythm) undergoing PCI from January 2007 through December 2008 enrolled in a multicenter Australian registry. Periprocedural AF was present in 162 patients (4.9%). AF was associated with older age (74.1 ± 8.9 vs 63.9 ± 11.9 years, p <0.001), higher baseline serum creatinine (0.13 ± 0.14 vs 0.10 ± 0.13 mmol/L, p = 0.01), and lower left ventricular ejection fraction (49.5 ± 13.2% vs 53.4% ± 11.6%, p <0.001). Significantly more patients with AF had a history of heart failure and cerebrovascular and peripheral arterial diseases (p ≤0.01 for all comparisons). Periprocedural glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor (31.5% vs 31.4%, p = 0.98) and antithrombin use were not different between groups, but in-hospital bleeding complications were higher in patients with AF (5.0% vs 2.1%, p = 0.015). Fewer patients with AF received drug-eluting stents (p = 0.004). AF was associated with a greater than fourfold increase in 30-day mortality (9.9% vs 2.2%, p <0.0001) and readmission rates at 30 days (p = 0.01). Fewer patients with AF were on dual antiplatelet therapy at 30 days (86.3% vs 94.3%, p <0.0001), although 28.1% of patients with AF were on triple therapy (dual antiplatelet therapy plus oral anticoagulation). In conclusion, patients with periprocedural AF represent a very high-risk group. Excess 30-day morbidity and mortality after PCI may be due to the higher incidence of co-morbidities, bleeding complications, and suboptimal antiplatelet therapy.

Adequate antiplatelet regimen in patients on chronic anti-vitamin K treatment undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention

AIM

To investigate the impact of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAT) in patients on anti-vitamin K (AVK) regimen requiring percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

METHODS

Between February 2006 and February 2008, 138 consecutive patients under chronic AVK treatment were enrolled in this registry. Of them, 122 received bare metal stent implantation and 16 received drug eluting stent implantation. The duration of DAT, on top of AVK treatment, was decided at the discretion of the clinician. Adequate duration of DAT was defined according to type of stent implanted and to its clinical indication.

RESULTS

The baseline clinical characteristics of patients reflect their high risk, with high incidence of comorbid conditions (Charlson score ≥ 3 in 89% of the patients). At a mean follow-up of 17 ± 11 mo, 22.9% of patients developed a major adverse cardiac event (MACE): 12.6% died from cardiovascular disease and almost 6% had an acute myocardial infarction. Major hemorrhagic events were observed in 7.4%. Adequate DAT was obtained in only 44% of patients. In the multivariate analysis, no adequate DAT and Charlson score were the only independent predictors of MACE (both P = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Patients on chronic AVK therapy represent a high risk population and suffer from a high MACE rate after PCI. An adequate DAT regimen and absence of comorbid conditions are strongly associated with better clinical outcomes.

Triple therapy in hospitalized patients: facts and controversies

The use of triple therapy (warfarin plus dual antiplatelet therapy) has increased in recent years due to an aging population with a higher risk for atrial fibrillation, as well as the increased use of coronary stents for acute coronary syndromes. Triple therapy confers a higher bleeding risk than either warfarin or dual antiplatelet therapy alone. However, warfarin alone is inadequate for patients with indications for triple therapy because of an unacceptable risk of stent thrombosis, and dual antiplatelet therapy is inferior to warfarin for the prevention of ischemic strokes in patients with atrial fibrillation, mechanical valves, or intraventricular thrombosis. Hospitalists face the challenge of balancing the aforementioned risks; the optimal management of these patients requires knowledge of the relevant literature and expertise. In this paper, we review the current literature on antiplatelet and anticoagulant combinations in patients with atrial fibrillation and coronary stents in order to improve adherence to published guidelines and to reduce the risk of bleeding.

Consensus document: antithrombotic therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing coronary stenting. A North-American perspective

The optimal regimen of the anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapies in patients with atrial fibrillation who have had a coronary stent is unclear. It is well recognised that "triple therapy" with aspirin, clopidogrel, and warfarin is associated with an increased risk of bleeding. National guidelines have not made specific recommendations given the lack of adequate data. In choosing the best antithrombotic options for a patient, consideration needs to be given to the risks of stroke, stent thrombosis and major bleeding. This document describes these risks, provides specific recommendations concerning vascular access, stent choice, concomitant use of proton-pump inhibitors and the use and duration of triple therapy following stent placement based upon the risk assessment.

Antithrombotic therapies in patients with prosthetic heart valves: guidelines translated for the clinician

Patients with prosthetic heart valves require chronic oral anticoagulation. In this clinical scenario, physicians must be mindful of the thromboembolic and bleeding risks related to chronic anticoagulant therapy. Currently, only vitamin K antagonists are approved for this indication. This paper reviews the main heart valve guidelines focusing on the use of oral anticoagulation in these patients.