Reduction of perioperative rebleeding in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage with combination therapy of hemocoagulase and antifibrinolytics: A multicenter retrospective study

BackgroundRebleeding following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) interventions significantly increases mortality and disability. While hemostatic agents are commonly used to prevent rebleeding, the efficacy of antifibrinolytics as monotherapy remains controversial, and thrombins has limited supporting evidence. This study investigates the impact of hemocoagulase, a thrombin-like agent, and its combination with antifibrinolytics on reducing rebleeding and improving functional outcomes in aSAH patients undergoing invasive treatments, providing insights into optimal medication strategies for aSAH management. MethodsWe conducted a retrospective analysis of data from aSAH patients across three medical institutions over a ten-year period. We compared post-treatment outcomes and the incidence of adverse events between two cohorts those who received hemocoagulase and antifibrinolytics during the perioperative period and those who did not. Primary outcomes included mortality, dependency in activities of daily living, and length of stay. Secondary outcomes comprised rebleeding and cerebral ischemic incidents. ResultsThe study included 345 aSAH patients who underwent neurosurgical interventions, with 81.16% receiving hemostatic agents. Patients treated with hemostatic medications exhibited a significantly lower incidence of hemiplegia compared to the control cohort. However, no differences were observed in rebleeding or cerebral ischemic events. Notably, for patients who received a combination of hemocoagulase and a single antifibrinolytic agent, the incidence of rebleeding within 72 hours post-intervention and overall postoperative rebleeding was significantly lower. ConclusionThe use of hemostatic agents during the perioperative period of aSAH may improve functional outcomes. Combining hemocoagulase with a single antifibrinolytic agent appears to reduces early rebleeding following aSAH interventions.