The Effect of Antiplatelet Agents on Thromboelastography

Abstract

Background Thomboelastography (TEG) is a point of care viscoelastic test that provides an assessment of clot formation and kinetics. Antiplatelet agents are commonly used but there is limited literature evaluating their possible effects on overall clot kinetics. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between antiplatelet agents and clot kinetics as defined by TEG. Methods This is a retrospective study of adult patients who underwent TEG from February 2018 to July 2020. Patients who received anticoagulants or blood transfusions within 72 hours, had an incomplete TEG, were diagnosed with COVID-19, or had liver failure were excluded. Patients were stratified based on antiplatelet status. Results Of 1060 patients, 119 were included (50 controls, 69 antiplatelet agents—37 aspirin monotherapy, 26 dual antiplatelet therapy). Between the control and antiplatelet therapy groups, there was no significant difference in clot time, maximal clot strength, or fibrinogen level. When compared to control patients, patients on dual antiplatelets had significantly higher fibrinogen levels (408.1 mg/dL vs 481.5 mg/dL, P = .013) but no significant differences in clot time or maximal clot strength. In our subgroup analysis, patients on dual antiplatelets had increased maximal clot strength (58.8° vs 63°, P = .005) and fibrinogen levels (384.1 mg/dL vs 481.5 mg/dL, P = .005) compared to those on aspirin alone. Discussion Compared to control patients and those on aspirin alone, patients on dual antiplatelets have increased maximal clot strength and increased fibrinogen levels. These results can help physicians better target product resuscitation in patients who are on antiplatelet agents.