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When do vascular surgeons prescribe antiplatelet therapy? Current attitudes
S Sarin1, S K Shami, T R Cheatle
1Department of Surgery, University College & Middlesex School of Medicine, Middlesex Hospital, London, U.K.
European Journal of Vascular Surgery
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Antiplatelet therapy effectively prevents secondary atherosclerotic events. Routine use is recommended for patients with arterial disease, regardless of surgical intervention, to reduce long-term vascular mortality and events.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Antiplatelet agents are crucial for preventing atherosclerotic events.
- Evidence supports their use in secondary prevention for conditions like unstable angina and myocardial infarction.
- Benefit in preventing vascular graft occlusion requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on antiplatelet therapy efficacy.
- To assess current practices of vascular surgeons regarding antiplatelet use.
- To provide recommendations on routine antiplatelet prescription in arterial disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on antiplatelet therapy in atherosclerotic event prevention.
- Postal survey of Vascular Surgeons in Britain and Ireland.
- Analysis of 112 responses regarding antiplatelet drug usage post-vascular procedures.
Main Results:
- Strong evidence supports routine antiplatelet therapy for secondary atherosclerotic event prevention.
- 47% of surveyed surgeons routinely used antiplatelet therapy post-vascular procedures.
- Selective use was noted for specific reconstructions (e.g., synthetic grafts) and post-angioplasty.
Conclusions:
- Routine antiplatelet therapy is strongly advocated for patients with arterial disease presenting to vascular surgeons.
- This recommendation applies irrespective of the type of vascular reconstruction, angioplasty, or graft used.
- Widespread adoption could reduce long-term vascular mortality and non-fatal vascular events.