Blood Thinner for Radial Artery Occlusion

(CAPITAL-RAPTOR Trial)

This trial tests a blood thinner called rivaroxaban (Xarelto) to determine if it can prevent radial artery occlusion, a common complication after heart procedures through the wrist. The trial seeks to discover if taking rivaroxaban for a week post-procedure can keep the artery open and prevent future issues. Participants are divided into two groups: one taking rivaroxaban and the other receiving standard care without the drug. Individuals who have undergone a heart procedure through the wrist and do not have a history of bleeding problems or certain health conditions might be suitable for this trial. As a Phase 3 trial, this study represents the final step before potential FDA approval, offering participants a chance to contribute to a treatment nearing widespread availability.

The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications or certain other drugs, you may not be eligible to participate.

Research has shown that rivaroxaban is generally well-tolerated, making it a promising option for preventing complications like radial artery occlusion, a blockage of the artery in the wrist, after certain heart procedures. Studies have demonstrated that rivaroxaban significantly reduces the risk of this type of artery blockage compared to not using any blood thinner. For instance, one study found that the rate of radial artery occlusion decreased to 6.9% with rivaroxaban, compared to 13% without it.

Most treatments for radial artery occlusion focus on surgical interventions or traditional anticoagulants like heparin or warfarin. However, Rivaroxaban, an investigational treatment, offers a unique approach. It is an oral anticoagulant that specifically targets Factor Xa, a key enzyme in the blood clotting process, which could offer a more direct mechanism of action. Unlike other blood thinners that require regular blood monitoring and dietary restrictions, Rivaroxaban provides a simpler, once-daily oral dosing without these limitations. Researchers are excited about its potential to improve patient convenience and reduce the risk of complications associated with traditional anticoagulants.

In this trial, participants will join one of two groups to evaluate the effectiveness of rivaroxaban in preventing radial artery occlusion. Research has shown that rivaroxaban, a blood-thinning medication, can reduce the risk of radial artery blockage after certain heart procedures. One study found that patients taking rivaroxaban had a lower rate of artery blockage—6.9% compared to 13% in those not taking it. This suggests rivaroxaban may reduce the risk by about half. Another study found significant improvement in many patients, with about 81% experiencing partial or complete clearing of their blockages. These findings suggest that rivaroxaban could help keep the radial artery open and prevent complications after procedures involving this artery.¹²³⁴⁶