Perioperative cangrelor in patients with recent percutaneous coronary intervention undergoing liver transplantation: A case series

BACKGROUND: Management of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) in the perioperative setting is challenging, particularly in complex patient populations, such as those with underlying coagulopathy and/or recent percutaneous coronary interventions. METHODS: In this case series, we describe the perioperative use of cangrelor bridge therapy in two patients undergoing liver transplantation after recent coronary drug-eluting stent placement. OUTCOMES: In both patient cases, cangrelor use as a P2Y12 bridge at a dose of 0.75 μg/kg/min was safe and effective. Both patients were successfully switched back to their oral DAPT regimen post-operatively without additive bleeding or thrombotic complications. CONCLUSION: The use of cangrelor as bridge therapy in high-risk perioperative liver transplant patients appears to be a viable option when DAPT is warranted.