Effects of Pooled Platelet Concentrate After Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery in Patients With Dual Antiplatelet Therapy.

Background: Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) has become standard first-line treatment of acute coronary syndrome; however, it increases the risk of bleeding complications. The aim of this study was to investigate the benefits of pooled platelet concentrate (PPC) in reducing postoperative bleeding in patients undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) after a DAPT loading dose.

Methods: One hundred nine patients who underwent emergent CABG within the first 24 hours after receiving a DAPT loading dose were included in the study and divided into 2 groups: patients who were (group 1, n = 63) and were not (group 2, n = 46) given PPC during the surgery. The amount of bleeding in the postoperative period and the need for blood transfusions were recorded.

Results: The mean (SD) surgical drainage amounts were 475.39 (101.94) mL in group 1 and 679.34 (232.03) mL in group 2 (P = .001). The need for surgical revisions was 0% and 15.2% in groups 1 and 2, respectively (P = .002). The median (range) duration of hospitalization after surgery was 4 (4-6) days in group 1 and 6 (4-9) days in group 2 (P = .001). Total transfusions per patient were higher in group 2 than in group 1 (1 [range, 1-4] and 3 [range, 2-7] units, respectively; P = .001).

Conclusion: Perioperative PPC in patients who had received DAPT reduces postoperative bleeding, the need for blood products, and hospital stay. As a result, it has beneficial effects for early mobilization and improves patient comfort.