What are the benefits and risks of adding aspirin therapy to VKA therapy for patients with AF with stable coronary artery disease or peripheral arterial disease?
The benefits of adding aspirin therapy to VKA therapy in patients with AF with stable coronary artery disease or peripheral arterial disease include a reduced risk of systemic embolism, ischemic stroke, and vascular death. However, there is an increased risk of major extracranial hemorrhage and intracranial hemorrhage (subdural, subarachnoid, and intracerebral). Evidence from systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) as well as cohort studies should be consulted to assess the balance of risks and benefits.