Rotational atherectomy (RA) prior to angioplasty is the reference treatment for highly calcified atherosclerotic coronary lesions. It aims at fragmenting calcium deposits into microscopic particulates to allow less hazardous coronary revascularization and stenting. The main drawback associated with the procedure is the subsequent enhancement of platelet aggregation which promotes the distal embolization of micro-thrombi and atherosclerotic fragments. In order to limit these complications, a double antiplatelet therapy is required (generally Clopidogrel + Aspirin) when RA procedures are performed. Clopidogrel inhibits the protein P2Y12 which is a cornerstone in platelet aggregation. It is characterized by a slow and variable transformation of a prodrug into an active metabolite and by a remaining risk of thrombosis and myocardial infarction. Ticagrelor is a new antiplatelet agent that provides faster and greater P2Y12 inhibition than Clopidogrel. It is currently indicated to reduce risk of cardiovascular events in patients hospitalized for coronary revascularization after an acute coronary syndrome. Ticagrelor has never been evaluated so far in stable coronary patients treated with rotational atherectomy prior to angioplasty.
Rotational atherectomy (RA) prior to angioplasty is the reference treatment for highly calcified atherosclerotic coronary lesions. It aims at fragmenting calcium deposits into microscopic particulates to allow less hazardous coronary revascularization and stenting. The main drawback associated with the procedure is the subsequent enhancement of platelet aggregation which promotes the distal embolization of micro-thrombi and atherosclerotic fragments. In order to limit these complications, a double antiplatelet therapy is required (generally Clopidogrel + Aspirin) when RA procedures are performed. Clopidogrel inhibits the protein P2Y12 which is a cornerstone in platelet aggregation. Ticagrelor is a new antiplatelet agent that provides faster and greater P2Y12 inhibition than Clopidogrel. It is currently indicated to reduce risk of cardiovascular events in patients hospitalized for coronary revascularization after an acute coronary syndrome. Ticagrelor has never been evaluated so far in stable coronary patients treated with rotational atherectomy prior to angioplasty.