Impact of Discontinuation of Antiplatelet Therapy Prior to Isolated Valve and Combined Coronary Artery Bypass Graft and Valve Procedures on Short and Intermediate Term Outcomes

Abstract

BACKGROUND: A change in cardiac surgery practice over the past decade has seen an increase in urgent or inpatient referrals for surgery, with antiplatelet therapy often continued up until surgery. This study aims to identify the optimal timing for administration of aspirin to minimise risk of perioperative morbidity and mortality. METHODS: From a prospectively compiled database collected by the Australian and New Zealand Society of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgeons, we identified 8294 patients undertaking combined CABG and valve or isolated valve procedures while discontinuing aspirin. Time points for cessation of antiplatelet therapy were categorised as follows: 7 days preoperatively. We evalua..