Abstract 15797: Peri-procedural Use of Novel Anticoagulation Agents During Cardiac Device Implantation

Introduction: The timing of discontinuation and re-initiation of novel anticoagulant agents (NOACs) such as dabigatran, apixaban and rivaroxaban in the peri-procedural setting is important to minimize the risk of stroke and procedure-related bleeding. Methods: Consecutive patients who were on treatment with either dabigatran, rivaroxaban or apixaban and underwent a cardiac device generator change, upgrade or new implantation procedure at two high volume centers were noted (Group A). Age and gender matched patients on warfarin who underwent similar procedures were collected for controls (Group B). Patients were followed for three months for hematoma and other complications. Results: A total of 185 patients in group A underwent above procedures with new device implant in 50%, device upgrade in 23% and generator change in 25% of patients. There were 61 patients on dabigatran, 90 on rivaroxaban, 34 on apixaban in group A and 185 patients on coumadin in group B. Mean age of the total population was 68±12 years...