Iodinated Contrast Does Not Alter Clotting Dynamics in Acute Ischemic Stroke as Measured by Thromboelastography

Abstract

Background and Purpose—: Iodinated contrast agents used for computed tomography angiography (CTA) may alter fibrin fiber characteristics and decrease fibrinolysis by tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). Thromboelastography (TEG) measures the dynamics of coagulation and correlates with thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke patients. We hypothesized that receiving CTA before tPA will not impair thrombolysis as measured by TEG. Methods—: Acute ischemic stroke patients receiving 0.9 mg/kg tPA P =0.74). Thus, tPA-induced thrombolysis did not differ between contrast and noncontrast groups. Additionally, there was no effect of contrast on any pre–tPA TEG value. Conclusions—: Our data do not support an effect of iodinated contrast agents on clot formation or tPA activity.