Incidence, predictors, and clinical impact of bleeding after transradial coronary stenting and maximal antiplatelet therapy

Impact of sex differences on the feasibility and safety of distal radial access for coronary procedures: a multicenter prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Conventional transradial access in women is associated with a lower success rate and a higher incidence of spasm compared to men. To date, the effect of sex on the performance of distal radial access (DRA) has not been fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of sex on catheterization success and other performance parameters of DRA procedures.

METHODS

This is a prospective three-center observational study. From August 2020 to September 2022, data from all consecutive patients who underwent DRA for coronary procedures were collected.

RESULTS

A total of 868 procedures were registered and stratified into two groups according to sex: women (n = 258) and men (n = 610). Female patients had less favorable baseline characteristics than male patients in terms of absent or weak pulse (29% vs. 17%; P  < 0.001), distal radial diameter (2.2 ± 0.3 vs. 2.4 ± 0.4 mm; P  < 0.001) and proximal radial diameter (2.5 ± 0.7 vs. 2.7 ± 0.7 mm; P  = 0.001). No differences in success rates were found in women compared to men (94.2% vs. 96.6%; P  = 0.135), with a higher presence of arterial spasm in women (5.8% vs. 3.0%; P  = 0.044). The preprocedural ultrasound evaluation was the only predictor of DRA success [odds ratio = 20.0 (4.739-83.333); P  < 0.001].

CONCLUSION

In patients undergoing coronary procedures, the success rate of DRA was high regardless of sex, with a higher incidence of arterial spasm in women.

Initial experience of using a large-bore (0.096″ inner diameter) access catheter in neurovascular interventions

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to report our initial experience of using a large-bore (0.096″ inner diameter) access catheter in neurovascular interventions.

METHODS

Data were retrospectively collected from 5 sites in the US for neurovascular procedures performed using a large-bore access catheter. The effectiveness outcome was technical success, defined as the access catheter's successfully reaching its target vessel without conversion to direct carotid puncture or to a smaller-bore access catheter and successfully completing the intended neurointervention.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirteen procedures performed in 112 patients were included in this study. The mean age of the patients was 67.5 years (SD 16.2), and about half (49.1%) were female. The most common primary access sites were the femoral (64.6%) or radial (32.7%) artery. Challenging anatomic variations included severe vessel tortuosity (26/81, 32.1%), type II aortic arch (17/88, 19.3%), type III aortic arch (14/88, 15.9%), bovine arch (16/104, 15.4%), severe angle (<30°) between the subclavian and target vessel (11/74, 14.9%), and subclavian loop (7/79, 8.9%). The median access time to branch view was 18 min (IQR 11-28, N = 75). The technical success rate was 94.7%. Two dissections (1.8%) were related to the large-bore access catheter. Access site complications occurred in 2 patients (1.8%). Four additional symptomatic periprocedural complications not related to the large-bore access catheter occurred (7.1%).

CONCLUSION

For neurovascular interventions, a 0.096″ inner diameter access catheter could be used with both femoral and radial arterial approaches, had a high technical success rate, and had a low rate of periprocedural complications.

Complications and related risk factors of transradial access cannulation for hemodynamic monitoring in general surgery: a prospective observational study

PURPOSE

To examine the short-term complications of arterial cannulation for intraoperative monitoring and their related risk factors.

METHODS

We included adult inpatients (≥ 18 years old) who underwent an initial transradial access (TRA) cannulation and were scheduled for general surgery between April 8 and November 30, 2020. We used 20G arterial puncture needles for puncturing and manual compression for hemostasis. Demographic, clinical, surgical, anesthetic, and laboratory data were extracted from electronic medical records. Vascular, neurologic, and infectious complications of TRA cannulation were recorded and analyzed. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify risk factors related to TRA cannulation for intraoperative monitoring.

RESULTS

Among 509 included patients, 174 developed TRA cannulation-related complications. Puncture site bleeding/hematoma and median nerve injury were observed in 158 (31.0%) and 16 (3.1%) patients, respectively. No patient developed cannula-related infections. Logistic regression analysis revealed increased odds of puncture site bleeding/hematoma in women (odds ratio 4.49, 95% CI 2.73-7.36; P < 0.001) and patients who received intraoperative red blood cell (RBC) suspension transfusion ≥ 4U (odds ratio 5.26, 95% CI 1.41-19.57; P = 0.01). No risk factors for nerve injury were identified.

CONCLUSION

Bleeding/hematoma were a common complication of TRA cannulation for intraoperative hemodynamic monitoring during general surgery. Median nerve injury may be an under recognized complication. Female sex and extensive intraoperative RBC transfusion are associated with an increased risk of bleeding/hematoma; however, the risk factors for nerve injury remain unclear.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study protocol was registered at https://www.chictr.org.cn (ChiCTR1900025140).

A direct wire pacing device for transcatheter heart valve and coronary interventions: a first-in-human, multicentre study of the Electroducer Sleeve

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) and complex percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) may require cardiac pacing during device delivery, generally requiring the insertion of a temporary pacing lead via an additional venous access site. The purpose-built Electroducer Sleeve device provides direct wire pacing without the need for a temporary venous pacemaker.

AIMS

This study assessed the safety of temporary cardiac pacing using the novel sleeve device during PCI.

METHODS

This was a multicentre, non-randomised, prospective, first-in-human, single-arm, pilot study. The primary endpoint was analysis of a safety outcome, defined as the occurrence of haematomas or bleeding complications at the device vascular access site. Secondary endpoints included analyses of effectiveness and qualitative outcomes.

RESULTS

Sixty patients (mean age: 77.9±9.6 years) from 4 centres in France were included: 39 (65%) underwent TAVI, and 21 (35%) underwent PCI. Procedures were performed using the sleeve with access through the radial (32 patients; 53.3%) or femoral arteries (26; 43.3%), or the femoral vein (2; 3.3%). Primary endpoint analysis revealed that 2 patients (3.3%) developed EArly Discharge After Transradial Stenting of CoronarY Arteries Study (EASY) grade I/Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC) type I haematomas at the device access site. As a measure of effectiveness, a haemodynamic effect was observed after each spike delivery in 54 patients (90%). Analyses of other secondary endpoints showed that 2 patients (6.3%) presented asymptomatic radial artery occlusion. No allergies were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

This first-in-human trial using the Electroducer Sleeve indicated that this novel, purpose-built, temporary pacing device was safe and effective. Larger prospective studies are required to confirm these findings.

Distal vs Conventional Radial Access for Coronary Angiography and/or Intervention: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials

BACKGROUND

Emerging evidence from randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing distal radial access (DRA) with conventional radial access (RA) is available.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to provide a quantitative appraisal of the effects of DRA) vs conventional RA for coronary angiography with or without intervention.

METHODS

The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched for RCT comparing DRA vs conventional RA for coronary angiography and/or intervention. Data were pooled by meta-analysis using a random-effects model. The primary endpoint was radial artery occlusion (RAO) at the longest available follow-up.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies enrolling 6,208 participants were included. Compared with conventional RA, DRA was associated with a significant lower risk of RAO, either detected at latest follow-up (risk ratio [RR]: 0.36; 95% CI: 0.23-0.56; P < 0.001; number needed to treat [NNT] = 30) or in-hospital (RR: 0.32; 95% CI: 0.19-0.53; P < 0.001; NNT = 28), as well as EASY (Early Discharge After Transradial Stenting of Coronary Arteries) ≥II hematoma (RR: 0.51; 95% CI: 0.27-0.96; P = 0.04; NNT = 107). By contrast, DRA was associated with a higher risk of access site crossover (RR: 3.08; 95% CI: 1.88-5.06; P < 0.001; NNT = 12), a longer time for radial puncture (standardized mean difference [SMD]: 3.56; 95% CI: 0.96-6.16; P < 0.001), a longer time for sheath insertion (SMD: 0.37; 95% CI: 0.16-0.58; P < 0.001), and a higher number of puncture attempts (SMD: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.48-0.69; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with conventional RA, DRA is associated with lower risks of RAO and EASY ≥II hematoma but requires longer time for radial artery cannulation and sheath insertion, more puncture attempts, and a higher access site crossover.

Radial Artery Access Complications: Prevention, Diagnosis and Management

The transradial approach for cardiac catheterization, coronary angiography, and percutaneous intervention is associated with a lower risk of access site-related complications compared to the transfemoral approach. However, with increasing utilization of transradial access for not only coronary procedures but also peripheral vascular procedures, healthcare personnel are more likely to encounter radial access site complications, which can be associated with morbidity and mortality. There is significant heterogeneity in the reporting of incidence, manifestations, and management of radial access site complications, at least partly due to vague presentation and under-diagnosis. Therefore, physicians performing procedures via transradial access should be aware of possible complications and remain vigilant to prevent their occurrence. Intraprocedural complications of transradial access procedures, which include spasm, catheter kinking, and arterial dissection or perforation, may lead to patient discomfort, increased procedure time, and a higher rate of access site cross over. Post-procedural complications such as radial artery occlusion, hematoma, pseudoaneurysm, arteriovenous fistula, or nerve injury could lead to patient discomfort and limb dysfunction. When radial access site complications occur, comprehensive evaluation and prompt treatment is necessary to reduce long-term consequences. In this report, we review the incidence, clinical factors, and management strategies for radial access site complications associated with cardiac catheterization.

The Rist radial access system: a multicenter study of 152 patients

BACKGROUND

Transradial access (TRA) for neurointervention is becoming increasingly popular as experience with the technique grows. Despite reasonable efficacy using femoral catheters off-label, conversion to femoral access occurs in approximately 8.6-10.3% of TRA cases, due to an inability of the catheter to track into the vessel of interest, lack of support, or radial artery spasm.

METHODS

This is a multicenter, retrospective case series of patients undergoing neurointerventions using the Rist Radial Access System. We also present our institutional protocol for using the system.

RESULTS

152 patients were included in the cohort. The most common procedure was flow diversion (28.3%). The smallest radial diameter utilized was 1.9 mm, and 44.1% were performed without an intermediate catheter. A majority of cases (96.1%) were completed successfully; 3 (1.9%) required conversion to a different radial catheter, 2 (1.3%) required conversion to femoral access, and 1 (0.7%) was aborted. There was 1 (0.7%) minor access site complication and 4 (2.6%) neurological complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The Rist catheter is a safe and effective tool for a wide range of complex neurointerventions, with lower conversion rates than classically reported.

Update on Transradial Access for Percutaneous Transcatheter Visceral Artery Embolization

Transfemoral access (TFA) is a widely used first-line approach for most peripheral vascular interventions. Since its introduction in cardiologic and neurointerventional procedures, several advantages of transradial access (TRA) over TFA have been demonstrated, such as patient preference, lower complication rates, early ambulation, and shorter hospital stay. However, studies reporting the safety and efficacy of this approach for peripheral vascular interventions performed by interventional radiologists are relatively few. This review aimed to summarize the technique and clinical applications of TRA in percutaneous transcatheter visceral artery embolization and the management of complications.

Post-procedural radial artery occlusion and patency detection using duplex ultrasound vs. the reverse Barbeau test

The transradial approach is recommended as a first choice in coronary catheterizations and interventions, for among other reasons, the reduction in the number of local complications. A head-to-head comparison of the reverse Barbeau test (RBT) and duplex ultrasonography (DUSG) for the detection of post-procedural radial artery patency and occlusion has not yet been evaluated. In 500 patients from our same-day discharge program (age 65 ± 9.4 years, 148 women), radial artery patency and occlusion, compression time, haematomas, and other local complications were evaluated. Radial artery patency was confirmed in 495 patients (99.0%), and complete radial artery occlusion (RAO) was detected in 2 (0.4%) patients using both methods. In 3 patients (0.6%), the RBT was negative, while incomplete RAO was detected by DUSG. Superficial haematomas (˃ 5 but ≤10 cm) were found in 27 (5.4%) patients. There were no other local complications. Detection of radial artery patency and occlusion using the RBT and DUSG was comparable. The incidence of RAO in our study was extremely low. Thanks to its simplicity, the RBT has the potential to be used as the first method of detection of radial occlusion after coronary catheterizations.

Radial access first for PCI in acute coronary syndrome : Are we propping up a straw man?

Coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) represent the recommended revascularization strategy for patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). However, periprocedural bleeding events, of which up to 50% are related to the access site, remain an important complication of PCI and are associated with higher costs, prolonged hospital stays, and increased mortality. Several randomized trials have demonstrated that PCI performed via radial artery (RA) access is associated with a reduction in bleeding events, and perhaps a reduction in mortality compared with femoral artery (FA) access. As a result, current practice guidelines from the European Society of Cardiology and the Canadian Cardiovascular Society recommend that RA be the default strategy for PCI in patients presenting with ACS. The recently published Safety and Efficacy of Femoral Access vs. Radial Access in ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (SAFARI-STEMI) trial challenges the benefits of a default RA approach in a contemporary setting where additional bleeding-reduction strategies (i.e., avoidance of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors, routine use of bivalirudin for procedural anticoagulation, and vascular closure devices) were employed. In order to better understand the evidence that has shaped the current recommendations, we present a review of the background studies and major randomized trials comparing RA with FA in patients presenting with ACS.

Transradial Artery Access Complications

Transradial access (TRA) is favored over transfemoral access for performing coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention due to the reduced risk for vascular and bleeding complications and the documented survival benefit in ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction patients who undergo primary percutaneous coronary intervention. TRA complications can be categorized as intra- or postprocedural and further categorized as related to bleeding or nonbleeding issues. Major intra- and postprocedural complications such as radial artery perforation and compartment syndrome are rare following TRA. Their occurrence, however, can be associated with morbid consequences, including requirement for surgical intervention if not identified and treated promptly. Nonbleeding complications such as radial artery spasm and radial artery occlusion are typically less morbid but occur much more frequently. Strategies to prevent TRA complications are essential and include the use of contemporary access techniques that limit arterial injury. This document summarizes contemporary techniques to prevent, identify, and manage TRA complications.

Incidence and predictors of forearm hematoma during the transradial approach for percutaneous coronary interventions

Background

The transradial approach for percutaneous coronary intervention (TRA-PCI) reduces vascular complications compared with the transfemoral approach (TFA). Although hematoma formation is less frequent with the TRA than TFA, it is not uncommon, and its presentation ranges from mild hematoma to compartment syndrome. Incidence and predictors of hematoma have not been well studied.

Methods and results

The present study was conducted to prospectively evaluate the incidence and predictors of forearm hematoma after TRA-PCI. The study population consisted of consecutive patients undergoing TRA-PCI. Baseline and procedural characteristics and clinical outcomes were prospectively collected. All patients were observed for forearm/arm hematoma immediately after procedure, after band removal, before discharge, and whenever the patient complained of pain/swelling in the limb. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the predictors for hematoma formation. A total of 520 patients who had successfully completed TRA-PCI were included in the final analysis. The mean age was 55.2 ± 9.5 years, and 24% patients were women. Hematoma occurred in 53 (10.2%) patients. Hematomas were of grade I, II, III, and IV in 22 (4.2%), 9 (1.7%), 18 (3.5%), and 4 (0.8%) patients, respectively. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, age, body mass index, multiple puncture attempt, glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor blocker use, nonclopidogrel agent use for dual antiplatelet therapy, and multiple catheter exchanges emerged as independent predictors for hematoma formation.

Conclusions

Forearm hematoma following TRA-PCI occurs in about 10% patients. Most hematomas occur near the puncture area. The independent predictors for hematoma formation are age, body mass index, multiple puncture attempts, intensive antiplatelet therapy, and multiple catheter exchanges.

Hemostasis pad combined with compression device after transradial coronary procedures: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Arterial access and hemostasis are important processes during percutaneous coronary procedures. In this study, we tested if the use of chitosan-based pads on top of compression devices could improve hemostasis efficacy compared with compression devices alone after transradial coronary angiography or interventions.

METHODS

This study was a single-center open-label randomized controlled trial. Patients who underwent coronary angiography or intervention with the transradial approach were randomly assigned to the study (compression device and a chitosan-based pad) or control (compression devices alone) group in a 2:1 fashion. The primary endpoint was time to hemostasis, categorized into ≤5, 6-10, 11-20, and >20 minutes.

RESULTS

Between April and July 2016, 95 patients were enrolled (59 were assigned to the study arm and 36 to the control arm). Time to hemostasis, the primary endpoint, was significantly lower in the study group than in the control group (p<0.001). Both groups showed low rates of vascular complications.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that the use of a hemostasis pad in combination with rotatory compression devices is a safe and effective hemostasis strategy after radial artery access.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02954029.

Flow and Diameter Changes of Forearm Arteries During Temporary Unilateral Reciprocal Occlusion: A Prospective Observational Study

PURPOSE

Transradial and transulnar artery approaches are commonly used for percutaneous interventions, with considerably low risk of developing hand ischemia, for reasons that have not been fully understood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes in the diameter, peak systolic flow velocity (PSV), and volume flow (VF) of the radial (RA) and ulnar artery (UA) during unilateral reciprocal temporary occlusion.

METHODS

A total of 204 extremity arteries of 102 consecutive patients were evaluated using Doppler ultrasonography. At the level of the wrist, RA and UA were consecutively compressed for 60 seconds. The diameter, PSV, and VF parameters of both arteries were evaluated during unilateral reciprocal compression.

RESULTS

Compared with the baseline values, the median (interquartile range) increases in diameter, PSV, and VF were 0.2 (0.1-0.3) mm, 6.8 (1.7-17.5) cm/s, and 1.9 (0.8-10) ml/min, respectively, for RA, and 0.1 (0.1-0.3) mm, 9.4 (2.6-18.0) cm/s, and 10.0 (0.0-20.0) ml/min, respectively, for UA during reciprocal compression (p < 0.001 for all).

CONCLUSIONS

Reciprocal compression significantly increased the diameter, PSV, and VF of both arteries during reciprocal compression. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:197-203, 2017.

Transradial Approach for Hepatic Radioembolization: Initial Results and Technique

OBJECTIVE

The transradial approach (TRA) has been shown to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with arterial coronary interventions. Selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) performed via the TRA can enhance patient comfort, compared with the traditional transfemoral approach (TFA), by allowing immediate ambulation and precluding potential complications associated with the TFA, such as closure device injury or retroperitoneal hematoma. We report our initial experience with and technique for using the TRA for SIRT.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between May 1, 2012, and April 30, 2015, a total of 574 procedures, including planning angiograms (n = 329) and infusions of ⁹⁰Y (n = 245), were performed for 318 patients (mean age, 64.5 years). Of the 245 patients who received ⁹⁰Y infusions, 52 had SIRT performed with the use of a permanent single-use implant of ⁹⁰Y resin microspheres and 193 had SIRT performed with the use of millions of small glass microspheres containing radioactive ⁹⁰Y. Procedural details, technical success, the radial artery (RA) occlusion rate noted at 30 days (as assessed via pulse examination), and the major and minor adverse events noted at 30 days were evaluated.

RESULTS

Technical success was achieved in 561 of 574 cases (97.7%). The reasons for crossover to use of the TFA included an RA loop (n = 2), RA occlusion (n = 9), and type D response as determined by use of a Barbeau test (n = 2). Patients had undergone between zero and six previous TRA procedures. The mortality rate at 30 days was 0%. Superficial bruising occurred in 13 of 574 cases (2.3%). A grade 2 hematoma that required a second nonocclusive hemostasis cuff occurred in one case. Transient forearm numbness or pain occurred in two of 574 cases. One patient had a transient convulsive event occur after receiving intraarterial infusion of verapamil. RA occlusion occurred in nine of 574 cases (1.6%).

CONCLUSION

Use of the TRA for SIRT is safe, feasible, and well tolerated and is associated with high rates of technical success and rare complications.

The Burden of Major Adverse Cardiac Events and Antiplatelet Prevention in Patients with Coronary or Peripheral Arterial Disease

BACKGROUND

Patients with a history of a cardiovascular (CV) disease are at high risk of suffering secondary major adverse cardiac events (MACE), namely death, nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, symptomatic pulmonary embolism, CV and all-cause hospitalization, and bleeding.

METHODS

A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted to review the epidemiology and burden of MACE in patients with coronary or peripheral arterial disease (CAD or PAD) in Europe and other ex-US regions. Relevant articles published between 2003 and 2013 were retrieved from PubMed and other sites.

RESULTS

MACE incidence and prevalence in patients with CAD or PAD were increased by at least 1.4-fold compared with matched controls with no CV disease. In patients with CAD, MACE mostly occurred within 30 days of primary percutaneous coronary intervention; incidence decreased with time. Increased oxidative stress in coronary and peripheral arteries, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease were identified as the main risk factors for MACE in patients with CAD and PAD. Registry data showed that, although preventive antiplatelet therapy was prescribed at high rates, a large proportion (9-56%) of patients did not receive treatment. Furthermore, adherence to treatment declined over time, potentially leading to disease worsening.

CONCLUSION

Despite gaps in the literature, this assessment showed that MACE's risk is substantial among patients with CAD or PAD and that the use of preventive therapies is suboptimal. Development of additional preventive therapies for these patients is warranted.

Effectiveness and Safety of the Transradial 8Fr Sheathless Approach for Revascularization of Chronic Total Occlusions

The experience with the transradial approach in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of chronic total occlusions (CTOs) in the United States is limited. We looked at the safety and feasibility of a home-made sheathless transradial technique (STT) with regular 8Fr catheters in CTO PCI. In March 2013, we developed an 8Fr STT for CTO PCI. We compared 119 patients who had the STT versus 122 treated with a standard transradial or transfemoral approach. The primary outcomes of interest were major vascular or bleeding site access complications. In a subgroup of patients with bilateral transradial approach, we assessed and compared radial patency 3 to 6 months after the procedure. Technical success rate of the CTO PCI was 93% in both groups. There were no major vascular or bleeding complications in the STT group. Radial hematomas were frequent but grade III occurred in 4 patients (3%) treated with the STT, not different to the incidence in the other group. The STT did not result in any increase in procedure time, contrast use, or radiation dose. Radial Doppler follow-up in 28 patients revealed 2 occlusions (7.1%) on the 8Fr shealthless side and one on the 6Fr side. In conclusion, our STT with regular 8Fr guides for CTO PCI is feasible, safe, and associated with low complication rate. We show that the hybrid CTO PCI nowadays can be performed through transradial access in the majority, with limited use of transfemoral approach.

The prognostic utility of tests of platelet function for the detection of 'aspirin resistance' in patients with established cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease: a systematic review and economic evaluation

BACKGROUND

The use of aspirin is well established for secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. However, a proportion of patients suffer repeat cardiovascular events despite being prescribed aspirin treatment. It is uncertain whether or not this is due to an inherent inability of aspirin to sufficiently modify platelet activity. This report aims to investigate whether or not insufficient platelet function inhibition by aspirin ('aspirin resistance'), as defined using platelet function tests (PFTs), is linked to the occurrence of adverse clinical outcomes, and further, whether or not patients at risk of future adverse clinical events can be identified through PFTs.

OBJECTIVES

To review systematically the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness evidence regarding the association between PFT designation of 'aspirin resistance' and the risk of adverse clinical outcome(s) in patients prescribed aspirin therapy. To undertake exploratory model-based cost-effectiveness analysis on the use of PFTs.

DATA SOURCES

Bibliographic databases (e.g. MEDLINE from inception and EMBASE from 1980), conference proceedings and ongoing trial registries up to April 2012.

METHODS

Standard systematic review methods were used for identifying clinical and cost studies. A risk-of-bias assessment tool was adapted from checklists for prognostic and diagnostic studies. (Un)adjusted odds and hazard ratios for the association between 'aspirin resistance', for different PFTs, and clinical outcomes are presented; however, heterogeneity between studies precluded pooling of results. A speculative economic model of a PFT and change of therapy strategy was developed.

RESULTS

One hundred and eight relevant studies using a variety of PFTs, 58 in patients on aspirin monotherapy, were analysed in detail. Results indicated that some PFTs may have some prognostic utility, i.e. a trend for more clinical events to be associated with groups classified as 'aspirin resistant'. Methodological and clinical heterogeneity prevented a quantitative summary of prognostic effect. Study-level effect sizes were generally small and absolute outcome risk was not substantially different between 'aspirin resistant' and 'aspirin sensitive' designations. No studies on the cost-effectiveness of PFTs for 'aspirin resistance' were identified. Based on assumptions of PFTs being able to accurately identify patients at high risk of clinical events and such patients benefiting from treatment modification, the economic model found that a test-treat strategy was likely to be cost-effective. However, neither assumption is currently evidence based.

LIMITATIONS

Poor or incomplete reporting of studies suggests a potentially large volume of inaccessible data. Analyses were confined to studies on patients prescribed aspirin as sole antiplatelet therapy at the time of PFT. Clinical and methodological heterogeneity across studies precluded meta-analysis. Given the lack of robust data the economic modelling was speculative.

CONCLUSIONS

Although evidence indicates that some PFTs may have some prognostic value, methodological and clinical heterogeneity between studies and different approaches to analyses create confusion and inconsistency in prognostic results, and prevented a quantitative summary of their prognostic effect. Protocol-driven and adequately powered primary studies are needed, using standardised methods of measurements to evaluate the prognostic ability of each test in the same population(s), and ideally presenting individual patient data. For any PFT to inform individual risk prediction, it will likely need to be considered in combination with other prognostic factors, within a prognostic model.

STUDY REGISTRATION

This study is registered as PROSPERO 2012:CRD42012002151.

FUNDING

The National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment programme.

Access-site bleeding and radial artery occlusion in transradial primary percutaneous coronary intervention: influence of adjunctive antiplatelet therapy

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate access-site complications in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction treated with a transradial primary percutaneous coronary intervention relative to three different P2Y12 platelet inhibitors.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We enrolled 334 consecutive patients (76.9% men, age: 59.4±9.1 years) treated by one of the following: clopidogrel (n=118), prasugrel (n=102), and ticagrelor (n=114). The use of the IIb/IIIa inhibitor, abciximab, was left to the operators' discretion. The time needed to achieve patent hemostasis, compression time, and local complications were analyzed.

RESULTS

The baseline characteristics were similar in all three P2Y12 platelet inhibitor groups. Abciximab was used in 72 (21.6%) patients. Administration of abciximab was associated with a higher incidence of grade II and III hematomas (23.6 vs. 5.0%, P<0.0001, and 5.6 vs. 1.1%, P=0.041, respectively). Among different platelet P2Y12 receptor inhibitor groups, the incidences of hematomas grade II and III were similar in patients who did (P≥0.14) and did not (P≥0.31) receive abciximab. There were no grade IV or V hematomas in any of the groups. Patent hemostasis was achieved faster (24.5±13.4 vs. 43.5±30.0 min, P<0.0001) and compression time was shorter (113.2±53.6 vs. 217.8±115.5 min, P<0.0001) when abciximab was not used. Radial artery occlusion occurred in one (0.3%) patient.

CONCLUSION

After transradial primary percutaneous coronary intervention, early patent hemostasis and short artery compression times were associated with a higher incidence of local hematomas. The incidence of hematomas was dependent on the use of abciximab, but unrelated to the type of P2Y12 inhibitor used. All hematomas were without clinical consequences.

Impact of anemia on long-term ischemic events and bleeding events in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention: a system review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Data focused on the ischemic events and bleeding events are still limited. We systematically reviewed the current available literature to investigate whether anemia increase incidence of long-term ischemic events and long-term bleeding events in patients undergoing PCI.

METHODS

PubMed and Embase were searched for case-control studies regarding the impact of anemia on long-term outcomes in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The primary outcome was long-term ischemic events and long-term bleeding events. Mantel-Haenszel method with random effects model or fixed effects model was used to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

Seventeen studies involving 68,528 patients (17,123 anemic patients and 51,405 non-anemic patients) were included. Pooled analysis suggested that anemic patients were at higher risk for long-term composite ischemic events (OR: 1.95, 95% CI, 1.21-3.14, P<0.01, I(2)=84%), long-term reinfarction (0R: 1.63, 95% CI, 1.16-2.28, P<0.01, I(2)=82%) and long-term bleeding events (OR: 2.89, 95% CI, 1.68-4.98, P<0.001, I(2)=89%). Anemia was also associated with long-term mortality (OR: 3.20, 95% CI, 2.72-3.75, P<0.01, I(2)=65%) and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) (OR: 2.06, 95% CI, 1.48-2.86, P<0.01, I(2)=91%).

CONCLUSIONS

Anemic patients undergoing PCI are at higher risk for both long-term ischemic events and bleeding events, and also at higher risk for long-term mortality and MACE. There's a need for further clarification and consistency regarding dosage, timing and duration of antithrombotic therapy for the prevention of ischemic events and bleeding events in anemic patients.

Safety and Feasibility of Transradial Access for Visceral Interventions in Patients with Thrombocytopenia

PURPOSE

Transradial access (TRA) has shown lower morbidity and decreased bleeding complications compared to transfemoral access. This study evaluates the safety and feasibility of TRA in thrombocytopenic patients undergoing visceral interventions.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Patients who underwent visceral interventions via the radial artery with platelet count less than or equal to 50,000/µL were included in the study. Outcome variables included technical success, access site, bleeding, transfusion, and neurological complications.

RESULTS

From July 1, 2012, to May 31, 2015, a total of 1353 peripheral interventions via TRA were performed, of which 85 procedures were performed in 64 patients (mean age 62.2 years) with a platelet count <50,000/µL (median 39,000/µL). Interventions included chemoembolization (n = 46), selective internal radiation therapy (n = 30), and visceral embolization (n = 9). Technical success was 97.6% with two cases of severe vessel spasm requiring ipsilateral femoral crossover. There was no major access site, bleeding, or neurological adverse events at 30 days. Minor access site hematomas occurred in five cases (5.9%) and were treated conservatively in all cases. Pre-procedural platelet transfusions were administered in 23 (27.1%) cases. There was no statistically significant difference in access site or bleeding complications between the transfused and nontransfused groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Transradial visceral interventions in patients with thrombocytopenia are both feasible and safe, possibly without the need for platelet transfusions.

Can the Anesthesiologist Use the Radial Artery for Monitoring After Transradial Artery Catheterization?

The use of transradial coronary angiography and intervention is growing because of its advantages over the femoral approach. However, the small size of the radial artery can contribute to complications. We present a case of an in situ access complication of transradial coronary artery catheterization. It is important for the anesthesiologist to know about the short-term and long-term consequences of this intervention, which could lead to narrowing of the artery even beyond the site of puncture. Understanding these changes could help anesthesiologists make better decisions about using the radial artery for monitoring after transradial coronary artery catheterization procedures.

Acute compartment syndrome occurring in forearm with relatively small amount of hematoma following transradial coronary intervention

A 59-year-old female with angina pectoris successfully underwent percutaneous coronary intervention via the right radial artery. She complained of right forearm pain and numbness 4.5 h after the procedure. Though the swelling in her right arm seemed relatively mild, pressure measurement showed significant increase of internal forearm pressure. She developed acute compartment syndrome in the right forearm, and fasciotomy was performed immediately. The weight of subcutaneous hematoma in her right arm was approximately 100 g. Symptoms of paralysis and the impairment of perception remained for some time, but had completely recovered 4 months post-surgery.

The Transradial Approach and Antithrombotic Therapy: Rationale and Outcomes

This article reviews antithrombotic strategies for percutaneous coronary interventions according to the access site and the current evidence with the aim of limiting ischemic complications and preventing radial artery occlusion (RAO). Prevention of RAO should be part of the quality control of any radial program. The incidence of RAO postcatheterization and interventions should be determined initially using the echo-duplex and then frequently assessed using the more cost-effective pulse oximetry technique. Any evidence of higher risk of RAO should prompt internal analysis and multidisciplinary mechanisms to be put in place.

Complications of Transradial Cardiac Catheterization and Management

The transradial approach for coronary angiography has become an increasingly used alternative to the conventional transfemoral approach. Decreased access site complications and bleeding, reduced hospital stays and health care costs, and increased patient satisfaction contribute to the attractiveness of this approach. However, operators must be familiar with the distinct complications associated with the transradial approach. In this article, we discuss the common and less common complications of transradial catheterization, prevention strategies, and management options.

Major bleeding after percutaneous coronary intervention and risk of subsequent mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To examine the relationship between periprocedural bleeding complications and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) and mortality outcomes following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and study differences in the prognostic impact of different bleeding definitions.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of PCI studies that evaluated periprocedural bleeding complications and their impact on MACEs and mortality outcomes. A systematic search of MEDLINE and EMBASE was conducted to identify relevant studies. Data from relevant studies were extracted and random effects meta-analysis was used to estimate the risk of adverse outcomes with periprocedural bleeding. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed by considering the I(2) statistic.

RESULTS

42 relevant studies were identified including 533 333 patients. Meta-analysis demonstrated that periprocedural major bleeding complications was independently associated with increased risk of mortality (OR 3.31 (2.86 to 3.82), I(2)=80%) and MACEs (OR 3.89 (3.26 to 4.64), I(2)=42%). A differential impact of major bleeding as defined by different bleeding definitions on mortality outcomes was observed, in which the REPLACE-2 (OR 6.69, 95% CI 2.26 to 19.81), STEEPLE (OR 6.59, 95% CI 3.89 to 11.16) and BARC (OR 5.40, 95% CI 1.74 to 16.74) had the worst prognostic impacts while HORIZONS-AMI (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.11 to 2.05) had the least impact on mortality outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Major bleeding after PCI is independently associated with a threefold increase in mortality and MACEs outcomes. Different contemporary bleeding definitions have differential impacts on mortality outcomes, with 1.5-6.7-fold increases in mortality observed depending on the definition of major bleeding used.

ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction treated by radial or femoral approach in a multicenter randomized clinical trial: the STEMI-RADIAL trial

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to compare radial and femoral approaches in patients presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) by high-volume operators experienced in both access sites.

BACKGROUND

The exact clinical benefit of the radial compared to the femoral approach remains controversial.

METHODS

STEMI-RADIAL (ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction treated by RADIAL or femoral approach) was a randomized, multicenter trial. A total of 707 patients referred for STEMI <12 h of symptom onset were randomized in 4 high-volume radial centers. The primary endpoint was the cumulative incidence of major bleeding and vascular access site complications at 30 days. The rate of net adverse clinical events (NACE) was defined as a composite of death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and major bleeding/vascular complications. Access site crossover, contrast volume, duration of intensive care stay, and death at 6 months were secondary endpoints.

RESULTS

The primary endpoint occurred in 1.4% of the radial group (n = 348) and 7.2% of the femoral group (n = 359; p = 0.0001). The NACE rate was 4.6% versus 11.0% (p = 0.0028), respectively. Crossover from radial to femoral approach was 3.7%. Intensive care stay (2.5 ± 1.7 days vs. 3.0 ± 2.9 days, p = 0.0038) as well as contrast utilization (170 ± 71 ml vs. 182 ± 60 ml, p = 0.01) were significantly reduced in the radial group. Mortality in the radial and femoral groups was 2.3% versus 3.1% (p = 0.64) at 30 days and 2.3% versus 3.6% (p = 0.31) at 6 months, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with STEMI undergoing primary PCI by operators experienced in both access sites, the radial approach was associated with significantly lower incidence of major bleeding and access site complications and superior net clinical benefit. These findings support the use of the radial approach in primary PCI as first choice after proper training. (Trial Comparing Radial and Femoral Approach in Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention [PCI] [STEMI-RADIAL]; NCT01136187).

The prognostic importance of left ventricular function in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: the HORIZONS-AMI trial

AIM

Left ventricular (LV) dysfunction during and after hospitalization for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is associated with increased mortality. Whether baseline LV dysfunction impacts STEMI outcomes is not well studied. Furthermore, whether bivalirudin and paclitaxel-eluting stents (PES) are beneficial in patients with LV dysfunction is unknown. We studied the impact of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) on outcomes of patients with STEMI in the HORIZONS-AMI trial.

METHODS

LVEF was determined in 2648 (73.5%) of 3602 enrolled STEMI patients, who were divided into three groups according to LV function: (1) severely impaired (LVEF <40%); (2) moderately impaired (LVEF 40-50%); and (3) normal (LVEF ≥50%).

RESULTS

Compared to patients with normal LV function, those with severely impaired LVEF had higher 1-year rates of net adverse clinical events (27.1 vs. 14.2%, p<0.0001), major adverse cardiovascular events (20.7 vs. 9.5%, p<0.0001), cardiac death (10.6 vs. 1.2%, p<0.0001), and non-coronary artery bypass graft major bleeding (12.5 vs. 6.6%, p=0.001), differences which persisted after adjustment for baseline characteristics. Among patients with LVEF <40%, treatment with bivalirudin compared to heparin+GPIIb/IIIa inhibitors resulted in reduced 1-year mortality (5.8 vs. 18.3%, p=0.007). Patients with LVEF <40% receiving PES rather than bare metal stents had lower rates of 1-year ischaemia-driven target lesion revascularization (2.9 vs. 12.6%, p=0.02) and reinfarction (4.5 vs. 14.7%, p=0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with STEMI undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention, adverse events are markedly increased in those with LVEF <40% during the index revascularization procedure. Nevertheless, these high-risk patients experience substantial clinical benefits from bivalirudin and PES.

Clinical review: bleeding - a notable complication of treatment in patients with acute coronary syndromes: incidence, predictors, classification, impact on prognosis, and management

This article focuses on the incidence, predictors, classification, impact on prognosis, and management of bleeding associated with the treatment of acute coronary syndrome. The issue of bleeding complications is related to the continual improvement of ischemic heart disease treatment, which involves mainly (a) the widespread use of coronary angiography, (b) developments in percutaneous coronary interventions, and (c) the introduction of new antithrombotics. Bleeding has become an important health and economic problem and has an incidence of 2.0% to 17%. Bleeding significantly influences both the short- and long-term prognoses. If a group of patients at higher risk of bleeding complications can be identified according to known risk factors and a risk scoring system can be developed, we may focus more on preventive measures that should help us to reduce the incidence of bleeding.

Adoption of radial access and comparison of outcomes to femoral access in percutaneous coronary intervention: an updated report from the national cardiovascular data registry (2007-2012)

BACKGROUND

Radial access for percutaneous coronary intervention (r-PCI) is associated with reduced vascular complications; however, previous reports have shown that <2% of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) procedures in the United States are performed via the radial approach. Our aims were to evaluate temporal trends in r-PCI and compare procedural outcomes between r-PCI and transfemoral PCI.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study from the CathPCI registry (n=2 820 874 procedures from 1381 sites) between January 2007 and September 2012. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate the adjusted association between r-PCI and bleeding, vascular complications, and procedural success, using transfemoral PCI as the reference. Outcomes in high-risk subgroups such as age ≥75 years, women, and patients with acute coronary syndrome were also examined. The proportion of r-PCI procedures increased from 1.2% in quarter 1 2007 to 16.1% in quarter 3 2012 and accounted for 6.3% of total procedures from 2007 to 2012 (n=178 643). After multivariable adjustment, r-PCI use in the studied cohort of patients was associated with lower risk of bleeding (adjusted odds ratio, 0.51; 95% confidence interval, 0.49-0.54) and lower risk of vascular complications (adjusted odds ratio, 0.39; 95% confidence interval, 0.31-0.50) in comparison with transfemoral PCI. The reduction in bleeding and vascular complications was consistent across important subgroups of age, sex, and clinical presentation.

CONCLUSIONS

There has been increasing adoption of r-PCI in the United States. Transradial PCI now accounts for 1 of 6 PCIs performed in contemporary clinical practice. In comparison with traditional femoral access, transradial PCI is associated with lower vascular and bleeding complication rates.

Early and late outcomes after primary percutaneous coronary intervention by radial or femoral approach in patients presenting in acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock

BACKGROUND

Although radial approach is increasingly used in percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) including in acute myocardial infarction (MI), patients with cardiogenic shock have been excluded from comparisons with femoral approach. The aim of our study was to compare clinical outcomes in patients undergoing primary PCI with cardiogenic shock by radial and femoral approach.

METHODS AND RESULTS

From 2,663 patients presenting with ST-elevation MI in 2 large volume radial centers, we identified 197 patients (7.4%) with signs of cardiogenic shock immediately before undergoing primary PCI. Radial approach was used in 55% of cases when at least 1 radial artery was weakly palpable, either spontaneously or after intravenous noradrenaline bolus. Patients in the radial group were older (69 ± 12 vs 64 ± 12 years, P = .010), had less diabetes (13% vs 26%, P = .028), and required less often intubation prior PCI (42% vs 66%, P = .0006) or intraaortic balloon pump (36% vs 55%, P = .0096). Mortality at 1 year was 44% in the radial group and 64% in the femoral group (P = .0044). Independent predictors of late mortality included radial approach (hazard ratio [HR] 0.65, 95% CI 0.42-0.98, P = .041), the use of glycoprotein IIb-IIIa receptor inhibitors (HR 0.63, 95% CI 0.40-0.96, P = .032), baseline creatinine ≥110 μmol/L (HR 3.34, 95% CI 2.20-5.12, P < .0001), initial glycemia >200 mg/dL (HR 2.02, 95% CI 1.34-3.11, P = .0008), and age >65 years (HR 1.80, 95% CI 1.18-2.79, P = .006).

CONCLUSION

Radial approach was safe and feasible in more than half of the patients with ST-elevation MI and cardiogenic shock treated by primary PCI. After adjustment for baseline and procedural characteristics, radial approach remained associated with better survival. However, prognosis of patients undergoing primary PCI in cardiogenic shock remains poor.

Saphenous vein graft percutaneous coronary intervention via radial artery access: safe and effective with reduced hospital length of stay

BACKGROUND

Although percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) via radial artery access confers many advantages over the femoral artery, PCI to saphenous vein grafts (SVG) is commonly performed via the femoral route. We compared outcomes in patients undergoing SVG PCI from the radial and femoral routes.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent SVG PCI between January 2006 and December 2010 in 2 large interventional centers in the United Kingdom. All radial and femoral operators selected for this analysis performed high-volume (>200 PCIs per year) procedures via either vascular route.

RESULTS

Of 305 patients (260 males) who underwent SVG PCI, 208 (68.2%) had the procedure completed from the femoral route and 97 (32.8%) radially. There was no difference between groups in fluoroscopy time (femoral vs radial 1095 vs 1125 seconds, P nonsgnificant), but radiation doses were greater (43.87 ± 2.83 Gy/cm(2) vs 56.92 ± 4.52 Gy/cm(2), P = .012) as was body mass index in the radial group (27.99 ± 0.33 vs 29.05 ± 0.42, P = .048). Three femoral access patients had vascular access complications, whereas the radial route group had none. There were no differences in no flow/slow flow (femoral 3.86% vs radial 2.54%, P nonsignificant). The mean length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in the radial access cohort (1.09 vs 2.09 days, P < .001). Three patients converted from radial to femoral artery, whereas one converted from femoral to radial after technical failure to complete the procedure.

CONCLUSION

Saphenous vein graft PCI can be safely and effectively performed via radial artery access with comparable fluoroscopy times but not radiation doses. Of clinical significance, use of the radial artery access was associated with decreased hospital stay and arterial complications. These data suggest that a routine radial approach for SVG PCI is feasible and could offer clinical and economic benefits.

Oral antiplatelet therapy in the secondary prevention of atherothrombotic events

Atherothrombosis is the leading cause of death worldwide and has a large economic impact. It is a pathologic process related to atherosclerosis, which leads to adverse clinical manifestations, including acute coronary syndrome, cerebrovascular disease, and peripheral arterial disease. Patients with atherothrombosis are at heightened risk for recurrent ischemic events or death, and therefore, secondary prevention is an important goal in the treatment of these patients. Antiplatelet therapies available for long-term secondary prevention include aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), extended-release dipyridamole plus aspirin, and clopidogrel. A number of clinical trials have demonstrated the benefit of combined antiplatelet therapy in secondary prevention, supporting the recommendations made in current published guidelines. Although the efficacy and safety of antiplatelet agents is well established and supported by clinical trials, their utilization rate in patients with atherothrombosis remains suboptimal. Quality improvement initiatives have demonstrated effectiveness in promoting the awareness and implementation of treatment guidelines. This article reviews the benefits and risks of antiplatelet therapy in patients with cardiovascular disease with the aim of spurring greater adherence to treatment recommendations and, thereby, better patient outcomes.

Bleeding complications in patients with acute coronary syndromes: are they important and how can we prevent them?

Progress in antithrombotic medications and revascularization procedures has helped to reduce mortality in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). However, these therapies can significantly increase the risk of bleeding. Bleeding complications are important clinical outcomes in patients with ACS. Data from numerous randomized controlled trials and large registries have demonstrated that bleeding is independently associated with a significantly higher risk of mortality in patients with ACS. Furthermore, bleeding complications are associated with an increased risk of recurrent ischemic events. The challenge of preventing bleeding complications while obtaining the optimal antithrombotic benefits of ACS management requires careful consideration of factors associated with patients, pharmacotherapy, and interventional procedures. Clinicians should be able to risk stratify patients for bleeding events just as they would do for recurrent ischemic events in ACS.

Comparison of transradial and femoral approaches for percutaneous coronary interventions: a systematic review and hierarchical Bayesian meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Despite lower risks of access site-related complications with transradial approach (TRA), its clinical benefit for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is uncertain. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical studies comparing TRA and transfemoral approach (TFA) for PCI.

METHODS

Randomized trials and observational studies (1993-2011) comparing TRA with TFA for PCI with reports of ischemic and bleeding outcomes were included. Crude and adjusted (for age and sex) odds ratios (OR) were estimated by a hierarchical Bayesian random-effects model with prespecified stratification for observational and randomized designs. The primary outcomes were rates of death, combined incidence of death or myocardial infarction, bleeding, and transfusions, early (≤ 30 days) and late after PCI.

RESULTS

We collected data from 76 studies (15 randomized, 61 observational) involving a total of 761,919 patients. Compared with TFA, TRA was associated with a 78% reduction in bleeding (OR 0.22, 95% credible interval [CrI] 0.16-0.29) and 80% in transfusions (OR 0.20, 95% CrI 0.11-0.32). These findings were consistent in both randomized and observational studies. Early after PCI, there was a 44% reduction of mortality with TRA (OR 0.56, 95% CrI 0.45-0.67), although the effect was mainly due to observational studies (OR 0.52, 95% CrI 0.40-0.63, adjusted OR 0.49 [95% CrI 0.37-0.60]), with an OR of 0.80 (95% CrI 0.49-1.23) in randomized trials.

CONCLUSION

Our results combining observational and randomized studies show that PCI performed by TRA is associated with substantially less risks of bleeding and transfusions compared with TFA. Benefit on the incidence of death or combined death or myocardial infarction is found in observational studies but remains inconclusive in randomized trials.