Femoral vascular closure device use, bivalirudin anticoagulation, and bleeding after primary angioplasty for STEMI: results from the HORIZONS-AMI trial

Feasibility and efficacy of real-time ultrasound-guided venous closure with suture-mediated vascular closure device

BACKGROUND

Venous vascular access complications are usually nonfatal but are the most common complications after transvenous catheter intervention. Vascular closure devices (VCDs) have recently become available for venous closure.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of real-time ultrasound-guided venous closure with suture-mediated VCDs in patients who underwent catheter ablation.

METHODS

This single-center observational study enrolled 226 consecutive patients who underwent elective catheter ablation with femoral venipuncture. For hemostasis, vessel closure by VCD was performed with real-time ultrasound guidance after 2022 (n = 123) and without ultrasound guidance in 2021 (n = 103). The occurrence of venous access site-related complications (major, minor, or other) was compared.

RESULTS

The rate of device failure was significantly lower in patients with ultrasound guidance than in those without (1.6% vs 6.3%; P = .048). The occurrence of all venous access site-related complications was significantly lower in patients with ultrasound guidance than in those without (4.9% vs 18.4%; P = .001). Time to ambulation was shorter in patients with ultrasound guidance than in those without (2.0 ± 0.1 hours vs 2.2 ± 0.6 hours; P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Real-time ultrasound guidance can reduce device failure, access site-related complications, and time to ambulation in performing venous closure with a VCD.

Femoral Vascular Closure Devices and Bleeding, Hemostasis, and Ambulation Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Background The effectiveness of vascular closure devices (VCDs) to reduce bleeding after transfemoral percutaneous coronary intervention remains unsettled. Methods and Results Participants in the REGULATE-PCI (Effect of the REG1 anticoagulation system versus bivalirudin on outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention) trial who underwent transfemoral percutaneous coronary intervention with VCD implantation were compared with those who underwent manual compression. The primary effectiveness end point was type 2, 3, or 5 Bleeding Academic Research Consortium access site bleeding at day 3. Univariate and multivariate analyses were adjusted by the inverse probability weighting method using propensity score. Time to hemostasis and time to ambulation were compared between groups. Of the 1580 patients who underwent transfemoral percutaneous coronary intervention, 1004 (63.5%) underwent VCD implantation and 576 (36.5%) had manual compression. The primary effectiveness end point occurred in 64 (6.4%) participants in the VCD group and in 38 (6.6%) participants in the manual compression group (inverse probability weighting-adjusted odds ratio, 1.02 [95% CI, 0.77-1.36]; P=0.89). There were statistically significant 2-way interactions between VCD use and female sex, chronic kidney disease, and use of high-potency P2Y12 inhibition (ticagrelor or prasugrel) (P<0.05 for all) with less bleeding with VCD use in these high-risk subgroups. Median time to hemostasis and time to ambulation were shorter in the VCD versus the manual compression group (P<0.01 for both). Conclusions Following transfemoral percutaneous coronary intervention, VCD use is associated with a shorter time to hemostasis and time to ambulation but not less bleeding. Further study of patients with high-bleeding risk is required, including women, patients with chronic kidney disease, and those using high-potency P2Y12 inhibitors. Registration URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01848106; Unique identifier: NCT01848106.

Access-Site vs Non-Access-Site Major Bleeding and In-Hospital Outcomes Among STEMI Patients Receiving Primary PCI

Background

Major bleeding (MB) is an independent predictor of mortality among ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). Prevention of access-site MB has received significant attention. However, limited data have been obtained on the influence of access-site MB vs non-access-site MB and association with subsequent adverse in-hospital outcomes in the STEMI population undergoing pPCI.

Methods

We identified 1494 STEMI patients who underwent pPCI between 2012 and 2018. Unadjusted and adjusted differences among patients with no MB, access-site MB, non-access-site MB, and in-hospital clinical outcomes were assessed. The use of bleeding-avoidance strategies and their effects on MB were also evaluated.

Results

MB occurred in 121 (8.1%) patients. Access-site MB occurred in 34 (2.3%) patients, and non-access-site MB occurred in 87 (5.8%). The median reduction in hemoglobin was 31 g/L (interquartile range: 19-43) with access-site MB, and 44 g/L (interquartile range: 29-62) with non-access-site MB. After multivariable adjustment, non-access-site MB was independently associated with in-hospital death (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 4.21; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.04-8.68), cardiogenic shock (aOR 10.91; 95% CI 5.67-20.98), and cardiac arrest (aOR 5.63; 95% CI 2.88-11.01). Conversely, access-site MB was not associated with adverse in-hospital outcomes. Bleeding-avoidance strategies were used frequently; however, after multivariable adjustment, no single bleeding-avoidance strategy was significantly associated with reduced MB.

Conclusions

In STEMI patients undergoing pPCI, non-access-site MB was independently associated with adverse in-hospital outcomes, whereas access-site MB was not. Additional study of strategies to reduce the incidence and impact of non-access-site MB appears to be warranted.

Temporal Trends in in-Hospital Bleeding and Transfusion in a Contemporary Canadian ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patient Population

Background

Although ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) management has evolved substantially over the past decade, its effect on bleeding and transfusion rates are largely unknown in a contemporary population.

Methods

Our study cohort included patients 20 years of age or older who were hospitalized for STEMI between 2007 and 2016 across all Canadian provinces, except Quebec. Unadjusted rates of bleeding and of transfusion during STEMI episodes were calculated overall and for each province according to fiscal year. Patients were stratified into 4 groups according to their bleeding/transfusion. Characteristics, treatment, and outcomes were compared between groups. Multivariate logistic regression modelling was used to assess the association between bleeding and transfusion on in-hospital mortality.

Results

Using 108,832 STEMI episodes, rates of in-hospital bleeding and transfusion declined between 2007 and 2016 from 3.9% to 2.8% (P < 0.0001) and 4.7% to 3.8% (P < 0.0001), respectively. However, variation in bleeding and transfusion rates were observed across Canadian provinces. Patients with bleeding or transfusion, were older, female, and had more comorbidities. Compared with patients who did not bleed or receive a transfusion, individuals who bled, were transfused, or bled and were transfused, had higher in-hospital mortality (18.6%, 30.3%, and 30.4%, respectively [P < 0.0001]). The association remained after adjustment: bleeding (odds ratio [OR], 2.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.8-2.4), transfusion (OR, 4.4; 95% CI, 3.9-4.9), and bleeding and transfusion (OR, 3.8; 95% CI, 3.2-4.6).

Conclusions

The proportion of Canadian STEMI patients who experienced in-hospital bleeding and transfusion has decreased over the past 9 years. However, patients with bleed or transfusion remain at higher risk of adverse outcomes.

Brachiocephalic artery stenting through the carotid artery: A case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

As the population ages and people’s living standards gradually improve, the incidence of cerebrovascular disease in China is increasing annually, posing a serious threat to people’s health. The incidence of brachiocephalic artery stenosis in ischemic cerebrovascular disease is relatively low, accounting for 0.5% to 2% of patients, but its consequences are very serious. Herein, we report a case of brachiocephalic artery stenting through the carotid artery.

CASE SUMMARY

The patient was a 66-year-old man. He came to our hospital because of repeated dizziness and was diagnosed with ischemic cerebrovascular disease (stenosis at the beginning of the brachiocephalic artery). Cerebral angiography suggested that the stenosis of the brachiocephalic artery had almost occluded it. Contrast agent threaded a line through the stenosis, and there was reversed blood flow through the right vertebral artery to compensate for the subclavian steal syndrome in the right subclavian artery. To improve the symptoms, we placed an Express LD (8 mm × 37 mm) balloon expanding stent in the stenosis section. After the operation, the patient’s dizziness significantly improved. However, after 6 mo, the patient was re-admitted to the hospital due to dizziness. A computed tomography scan of the head revealed multiple cerebral infarctions in bilateral basal ganglia and the right lateral ventricle. An auxiliary examination including computerized tomography angiography of the vessels of the head and cerebral angiography both showed severe stenosis in the brachiocephalic artery stent. During the operation, the guidewire and catheter were matched to reach the opening of the brachiocephalic artery. Therefore, we decided to use a right carotid artery approach to complete the operation. We sutured the neck puncture point with a vascular stapler and then ended the operation. After the operation, the patient recovered well, his symptoms related to dizziness disappeared, and his right radial artery pulsation could be detected.

CONCLUSION

In patients with brachial artery stenosis, when the femoral artery approach is difficult, the carotid artery is an unconventional but safe and effective approach. At the same time, the use of vascular suturing devices to suture a carotid puncture point is also commendable. Although it is beyond the published scope of the application, when used cautiously, it can effectively avoid cerebral ischemia caused by prolonged artificial compression, and improper suturing can lead to stenosis of the puncture site and improper blood pressure, resulting in the formation of a hematoma. Finally, satisfactory hemostasis can be achieved.

Extravascular compared to Intravascular Femoral Closure is Associated with Less Bleeding and Similar MACE after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Background: Various types of vascular closure devices (VCDs) are frequently utilized in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in order to prevent arterial access site bleeding, which represents one of the most relevant complications associated with adverse clinical outcomes. This study aims to compare directly two mechanistically different types of femoral closure (FC) devices in patients undergoing PCI. Methods: This single-center, prospective, observational study includes consecutively patients either treated by the extravascular StarClose SE® (Abbott, Illinois, U.S.A.) or the intravascular AngioSeal™ FC (St. Jude Medical, Inc., St. Paul, MN, U.S.A.) after PCI. The primary endpoint was bleeding complications, the secondary endpoint was major adverse cardiac events (MACE) at 30 days of follow-up. Results: 200 patients in each group (StarClose SE® and AngioSeal™) were enrolled following PCI. The rates of overall and non-access site bleedings were significantly higher in the AngioSeal™ group (56%; 6%) compared to the StarClose SE® group (43.5%; 0.5%) (p = 0.012; 0.003). Additionally, complicated access site bleedings were also significantly higher in the AngioSeal™ group (p = 0.011). No significant differences of MACE were observed in both groups. However, there was a higher rate of unsuccessful implantation of the StarClose SE® (n=12, excluded from the study). Conclusions: In case of successful implantation, FC by the AngioSeal™ is associated with the higher rate of both access and non-access site bleedings, but similar rates of MACE at 30 days compared to the StarClose SE® device.

Relationship Between Femoral Vascular Closure Devices and Short-Term Mortality From 271 845 Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Procedures Performed in the United Kingdom Between 2006 and 2011: A Propensity Score-Corrected Analysis From the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society

BACKGROUND

The impact of vascular closure devices (VCDs) via the femoral arterial access site on short-term mortality in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention is currently unknown.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The association between femoral arterial vascular access site management (manual pressure [including external clamp] versus VCD) and 30-day mortality was examined in a national real-world registry of 271 845 patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention for elective, non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction and ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction indications in the United Kingdom between 2006 and 2011. Crude and propensity score-corrected analyses were performed using Cox regression, with additional analyses undertaken in clinically relevant subgroups; 40.1% (n=109 001) of subjects were treated with manual pressure and 59.9% (n=162 844) with VCD. Subjects treated with VCD had fewer comorbidities and were less likely to present with ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock (P<0.001). Crude 30-day mortality was lower in the group treated with VCD compared with manual pressure (hazard ratio [HR], 0.58; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.54-0.61; 1.4% versus 2.4%, log rank P<0.0001), findings that were substantially reduced but persisted after propensity score correction (HR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.86-0.97; 1.8% versus 2.0% versus P<0.001). A more pronounced association of VCD with a reduction in 30-day mortality was evident in females (HR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.77-0.94; Pinteraction=0.037), presentation with acute coronary syndrome (HR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.83-0.94; Pinteraction=0.0027), or recent lysis (HR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.40-1.01; Pinteraction=0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

When compared with manual pressure, VCD was associated with a minor short-term (30-day) prognostic benefit after propensity score correction in the global population and clinically relevant subgroups. The potential for residual confounding factors impacting on short-term mortality cannot be excluded, despite the study having measured and balanced all recorded confounder factors.

Comparison of a vascular closure device versus the radial approach to reduce access site complications in non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome patients: The angio-seal versus the radial approach in acute coronary syndrome trial

OBJECTIVES

To compare the radial versus femoral approach using Angio-Seal for the incidence of access site complications among non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome patients undergoing invasive strategy.

BACKGROUND

Arterial access is a major site of complications after invasive coronary procedures. Vascular closure devices provide more comfort to patients decreasing time to hemostasis and need for bed rest. However, the inconsistency of data proving their safety limits their routine adoption as a strategy to prevent vascular complications.

METHODS

Single-center non-inferiority trial where 240 patients were randomized to radial or femoral access using Angio-Seal. The primary objective was the occurrence of complications at the arterial puncture site until 30 days after the procedure.

RESULTS

There were no baseline clinical differences between groups, except for a greater prevalence of female patients in the radial group (33.3 vs. 20.0%, P = 0.020). Hemostasis was achieved in the entire radial group with the use of TR Band and in 95% of the procedures in the femoral group with Angio-Seal (P = 0.029). Except for a higher incidence of asymptomatic arterial occlusion in the radial group, there were no differences among the other analyzed outcomes. According to the noninferiority test, the use of Angio-Seal was noninferior to the radial approach, considering the margin of 15% (12.5 vs. 13.3%, difference -0.83%, 95% CI -9.31 - 7.65, P for noninferiority <0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Angio-Seal seems noninferior in the incidence of access site complications at 30 days when compared with the radial approach. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Ticagrelor in Triple Antithrombotic Therapy: Predictors of Ischemic and Bleeding Complications

BACKGROUND

Patients on dual antiplatelet therapy following percutaneous coronary intervention often have indications for concurrent oral anticoagulation or triple antithrombotic therapy (TT). Although TT may decrease ischemic complications, it may confer increased bleeding risk.

HYPOTHESIS

We hypothesize that the use of ticagrelor in TT is associated with higher risk of complications; accordingly, we sought to determine predictors of complications in patients on TT.

METHODS

Patients discharged on TT after percutaneous coronary intervention were followed prospectively for 12 months. The primary endpoint was a composite of ischemic (death, myocardial infarction, stroke) and major bleeding complications or net adverse clinical event (NACE). A major secondary endpoint was BARC (Bleeding Academic Research Consortium) types 2, 3, or 5 bleeding. Outcomes were compared between ticagrelor- and clopidogrel-treated patients. Multivariable analyses were performed to elucidate predictors of complications.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven of 152 patients discharged on TT were on ticagrelor. NACE occurred in 52% of patients and BARC 2, 3, or 5 bleeding occurred in 18%. There was no difference in the primary or secondary outcome between ticagrelor vs clopidogrel subgroup. On logistic regressions, use of TT in patients with acute coronary syndrome (P = 0.002) and bridging in with ticagrelor (P = 0.02) were associated with increased NACE. Low estimated glomerular filtration rate was an independent predictor of bleeding (P = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of bleeding and ischemic complications among patients on TT is similar between those on ticagrelor and clopidogrel. However, caution with use of bridging anticoagulation should be taken when using ticagrelor.

Transfemoral approach with systematic use of FemoSeal™ closure device compared to transradial approach in primary angioplasty

OBJECTIVES

To compare the incidence of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) and thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) bleedings in primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) performed through transradial approach (TRA) or transfemoral approach (TFA) with systematic closure by FemoSeal™.

BACKGROUND

Although the risk of bleeding can be reduced using vascular closure devices (VCD), there are few data comparing TRA and TFA with VCD, particularly in the setting of pPCI.

METHODS

we included in this retrospective registry 777 patients who underwent pPCI at two centers from years 2010 to 2013. Exclusion criteria were implantation of intra-aortic balloon pump and achievement of femoral hemostasis by other means than FemoSeal™. We performed propensity-score matching and multivariate analysis to adjust for clinical and procedural confounders.

RESULTS

We enrolled 511 patients in TRA group and 266 in TFA group. Both in the general population and in the propensity-matched population, the incidence of MACCE was comparable in TRA vs. TFA patients (3.5 vs. 3.4% and 4.4 vs. 2.6%, respectively; P = ns). On the contrary, we observed a higher incidence of TIMI bleedings in TFA vs. TRA patients (5.6 vs. 2.2% in the general population and 6.6 vs. 1.3% in the propensity-matched population; P < 0.05); this difference was mainly driven by TIMI major bleedings. TFA was an independent predictor of bleeding at multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

In pPCI the rate of TIMI major bleedings was higher in TFA with closure by FemoSeal™ as compared to TRA, whereas the rates of minor bleedings and of MACCE were similar.