Platelet Inhibitors and Hydroxyethyl Starch: Safe and Cost-Effective Interventions in Coronary Artery Surgery

This study evaluated the cost-effectiveness and clinical safety of utilizing hetastarch in pump prime solutions and for colloid replacement postoperatively in conjunction with the platelet inhibitors, aspirin and Persantine (dipyridamole). Sixty-four adult patients undergoing a coronary artery bypass operation were divided into two groups. Group 1 (N = 32) received only Persantine (75 mg three times a day) on the day prior to operation. Group 2 (N = 32) received the same Persantine dose plus aspirin (325 mg). In both groups, aspirin and Persantine were continued postoperatively and hetastarch was used as the colloid of choice. All patients were evaluated for blood loss, coagulation profiles, cost of blood and colloid replacement, and clinical course. Group 2 patients demonstrated significantly greater blood loss ( p < 0.05) but the same postoperative coagulation profiles as Group 1. The transfusion requirement (3.6 units versus 1.3 units) and cost basis ($252 versus $91) for patient care were higher in Group 2. Hetastarch had no effect on blood loss and was not associated with any adverse clinical reactions. Annual institutional savings based on utilization of hetastarch were calculated at $33,500 to $40,500 per 500 patients. We conclude that preoperative administration of aspirin (325 mg) is associated with increased perioperative blood loss and higher patient costs, two variables not demonstrable with Persantine only. Use of hetastarch combined with postoperative platelet inhibition was clinically safe and was a cost-effective method of colloid replacement.