Efficacy of fibrinogen concentrate compared with cryoprecipitate for reversal of the antiplatelet effect of clopidogrel in an in vitro model, as assessed by multiple electrode platelet aggregometry, thromboelastometry, and modified thromboelastography.

Objectives: The management of dual-antiplatelet therapy when patients present for surgical revascularization is a clinical challenge. Whether increasing fibrinogen levels can restore hemostasis in this context is not established but may represent increased platelet glycoprotein fibrinogen binding, altered adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-dependent platelet activation, or an increase in formation of soluble fibrin as a component of whole blood clot.

Design: The study hypothesis was that fibrinogen concentrate would normalize in vitro hemostatic parameters after clopidogrel loading.

Transapical aortic valve implantation - an Australian experience.

Background: The aim of this study was to report our initial experience with the transapical approach to transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) at an Australian institution.

Methods: All patients with severe, symptomatic aortic stenosis were assessed by our multidisciplinary team. A total of 32 patients received a transapical TAVI using an Edwards SAPIEN prosthesis.