Dual antiplatelet therapy reduces stroke but increases bleeding at the time of carotid endarterectomy.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Controversy persists regarding the perioperative management of clopidogrel among patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy (CEA). This study examined the effect of preoperative dual antiplatelet therapy (aspirin and clopidogrel) on in-hospital CEA outcomes.

Methods

Patients undergoing CEA in the Vascular Quality Initiative were analyzed (2003-2014). Patients on clopidogrel and aspirin (dual therapy) were compared with patients taking aspirin alone preoperatively. Study outcomes included reoperation for bleeding and thrombotic complications defined as transient ischemic attack (TIA), stroke, or myocardial infarction. Secondary outcomes were in-hospital death and composite stroke/death. Univariate and multivariable analyses assessed differences in demographics and o

SUBMITTER: Jones DW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5065102 | biostudies-literature | 2016 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature