Non-VKA Oral Anticoagulants in Adult Congenital Heart Disease: a Single-Center Study

Non-VKA oral anticoagulants (NOACs) prescription is increasing in adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD). However, data on efficacy and safety in ACHD is unclear, particularly in severe CHD. The study aimed to review the safety and efficacy of NOACs in ACHD.

Retrospective evaluation of ACHD patients started on NOACs from 2014 to 2020, with the primary endpoints of bleeding or thromboembolic events (TE). CHA₂DS₂-VASc and HAS-BLED scores were calculated, mortality was assessed, and risk factors for bleeding were identified.

A total of 93 patients were included, the mean age was 52 ± 15 years, 58% were female, 55.9% had moderate CHD, and 23.7% had severe CHD (3.2% Fontan). Most (66%) had a CHA₂DS₂-VASc score ≥ 2 and 82% HAS-BLED ≤ 2. In a median follow-up of 41 (IQR 21) months (400.4 patient-years), there were TE in two patients. The annual risk for TE was 0.49%/patient/year. The cardiovascular mortality was 2% and all-cause mortality 5%; there were no fatal TE or bleeding events. Minor (n = 6, 6.5%) and major (n = 3, 3.2%) bleeding events were observed, a median of 12 (IQR 15) months after starting NOAC therapy. The annual risk for bleeding was 2.2%/patient/year. Renal disease (HR 14.6 [95% CI 1.23–73.6], p = 0.033) and the HAS-BLED score were predictors of major (adjusted HR 6.97 [95% CI 1.69–28.78], p = 0.007) and minor (adjusted HR 3.80 [95% CI 1.48–9.78], p = 0.006) bleeding complications.

In this real-life cohort of selected ACHD, the use of NOACs was safe and effective, with a low incidence of bleeding events.