Antithrombotic Strategies in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Purpose of review: The choice of appropriate antithrombotic therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) should be approached prudently. Careful consideration is necessary, balancing the ischemic and bleeding risk. Traditionally, triple antithrombotic therapy comprising of aspirin, a P2Y12 inhibitor, and an oral anticoagulant is associated with high bleeding rates. Recent findings: Recent trials have evaluated the safety and effectiveness of dual antithrombotic therapy in AF patients undergoing PCI. These studies have shown a significant reduction in bleeding with no increase in ischemic events. Clopidogrel is the preferred P2Y12 agent in the dual antithrombotic regimens. The novel oral anticoagulants (NOAC) rivaroxaban and dabigatran have been evaluated as part of dual antithrombotic therapy and are preferred options for oral anticoagulation in AF patients undergoing PCI. Studies are in progress to evaluate the role of alternate NOACs in this clinical scenario. Summary: This review explores the contemporary management of antithrombotic therapy in AF patients undergoing PCI. © 2019, Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.