Antithrombotic strategies after transcatheter aortic valve replacement a network meta-analysis

The optimal antithrombotic regimen for patients without an indication for oral anticoagulation (OAC) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) remains unclear. We conducted a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to clarify the best postoperative antithrombotic regimen. We searched literature databases including PubMed/Medline and Cochrane up to June 2024. Safety endpoints included all-cause death, cardiovascular death, major/life-threatening bleeding, and minor bleeding during follow-up. Efficacy endpoints encompassed ischaemic stroke transient ischemic attack (TIA), systemic embolism, hypoattenuated leaflet thickening (HALT), and reduced leaflet motion (RELM). Outcomes were assessed during the follow-up period specified in each trial (range:3-24 months). The results were statistically analyzed using R 4.3.2 and Stata 16 software. The final analysis included seven randomized controlled trials. Single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) showed a lower incidence of major/life-threatening bleeding compared to the direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) group (OR: 0.68, 95% CI: 0.47-0.99, P = 0.002) during the 3-24 month post-TAVR period. However, no significant differences were found in other safety or efficacy endpoints. SAPT is the preferred treatment strategy for TAVR patients without anticoagulation indications.