Successful Use of Recombinant Activated Factor VII to Reverse Ticagrelor-Induced Bleeding Risk: A Case Report

Abstract

Management of ticagrelor-associated bleeding is challenging, especially in neurosurgery. Platelet transfusion is inefficient and no antidote is currently available. We report here the first case of recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) use to bypass ticagrelor-induced platelet inhibition. A woman treated with ticagrelor and requiring emergent neurosurgery for an intracranial hematoma received preoperative high-dose platelet transfusion and 60 μg/kg rFVIIa. Laboratory monitoring demonstrated that platelet transfusion failed to reverse ticagrelor-induced platelet inhibition while rFVIIa improved hemostasis by shortening the thromboelastometric clotting time. Neurosurgery occurred without any bleeding event but the patient presented with a postoperative pulmonary embolism. In conclusion, rFVIIa may decrease ticagrelor-induced bleeding risk but careful assessment of the benefit-risk balance is warranted before using rFVIIa to reverse ticagrelor effects.