Anticoagulation management in gynecologic brachytherapy patients with perioperative or chronic thromboembolic disease: A retrospective analysis

Abstract

PURPOSE

Women on chronic anticoagulation (AC) who require operative brachytherapy for gynecologic malignancies represent a clinical challenge, but no guidelines exist regarding patient selection for brachytherapy or their perioperative management. We aimed to understand the incidence of hemorrhagic and embolic events in our patients on chronic AC and suggest management strategies for this patient population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective, single institutional study of patients treated with operative, gynecologic brachytherapy from 2013 to 2023 was performed to identify patients on chronic AC. We determined indications for AC use, oncologic therapy characteristics, duration of AC interruption, and therapy outcomes. The primary aim was to determine perioperative embolic or hemorrhagic complications as measured by the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events.

Results

Of 304 patients treated with operative implants, 32 (10%) were on chronic AC for venous thromboembolism (n = 25), or atrial fibrillation/flutter (n = 13). The most common malignancies were cervical (n = 15) and inoperable uterine (n = 11). Implants were intracavitary (n = 14), interstitial (n = 6), or hybrid (n = 12) with a median (range) of 2 (1-3) implants, 4 (2-5) fractions, and 2 (1-3) days of bedrest per implant. 63% (n = 20) had an epidural for analgesia. AC was held for a median 3 days in 94% (n = 30) prior to the operative implant, and pharmacologic DVT prophylaxis was used in 78% (n = 25). There were two grade ≥ 2 hemorrhagic events and no new embolic events.

Conclusions

The rate of bleeding and embolic events was acceptable, and women on chronic AC should not be excluded from potentially lifesaving operative brachytherapy, including complex cases that require spinal analgesia and interstitial applicators.