[Antithrombotic therapy after peripheral revascularization].

Abstract

Patients with lower extremity arterial disease are at increased risk for cardiovascular events. Antithrombotic therapy improves prognosis in these patients especially after peripheral revascularization. After endovascular revascularization duale anti-platelet therapy with Aspirin and Clopidogrel is used for up to 3 months in most cases, although there is only little evidence for this practice. Following peripheral bypass grafting most guidelines recommend single anti-platelet therapy. In some patients, anticoagulation with Vitamin K antagonists or dual anti-platelet therapy is indicated. But this practice is also based on small studies. The Vascular Outcomes Study of ASA Along With Rivaroxaban in Endovascular or Surgical Limb Revascularization for Peripheral Artery Disease (VOYAGER PAD) study is the largest randomized trial concerning antithrombotic therapy after peripheral revascularization. In total 6564 patients were included after successful surgical or endovascular lower-extremity revascularization. Rivaroxaban 2.5\u200amg twice daily plus Aspirin 100\u200amg reduced cardiac and peripheral events compared with Aspirin 100\u200amg alone with increased risk for relevant but not for critical bleeding complications. In addition to antithrombotic medication risk factor management and regular follow-up examinations are important improve long-term prognosis after peripheral revascularization.