Purpose: Thromboembolic events represent the most common procedure-related complication associated with neurointerventions. Cangrelor is a potent, intravenous (IV), P2Y12-receptor antagonist with a rapid onset and offset presented as an alternative antiplatelet agent. We aim to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of IV cangrelor in neurovascular intervention.
Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of data from four cerebrovascular interventional centers. We identified patients who underwent acute neurovascular intervention and received cangrelor as part of their optimum care. Patients were divided into 2 groups: ischemic and aneurysm. Periprocedural thromboembolic events, hemorrhagic complications, and outcomes were analyzed.
Results: Sixty-six patients were included, 42 allocated into the ischemic group (IG), and 24 into aneurysm group (AG). The IG periprocedural symptomatic complication rate was 9.5%, represented by 3 postoperative intracranial hemorrhages and 1 retroperitoneal hematoma. At discharge, 47.6% had a favorable outcome and the mortality rate was 2.4%, related to clinical deterioration of a large infarct. In the AG, 4.2% had a periprocedural complication during or after cangrelor infusion, represented by an intracranial hemorrhage in an initially ruptured aneurysm. Favorable clinical outcome was seen in 56.2% and 87.7% of ruptured and unruptured aneurysms, respectively, upon discharge.
Conclusions: Cangrelor may be a feasible alternative for patients requiring immediate intervention with the use of endoluminal devices. It allows the possibility for a secure transition to long-term ticagrelor and progression to surgery in the setting of unexpected complications.
Keywords: Aneurysm; Cangrelor; Intracranial hemorrhage; Stroke; Thromboembolism.