Perioperative Management of Oral Anticoagulation

Based on an individual assessment of risk factors for arterial or venous thrombosis and the risk of postoperative bleeding, this article outlines the preoperative and postoperative approach to anticoagulant management. Preceding this is a brief description of the therapies most commonly used in the perioperative period. The prevention of arterial thromboembolism is considered separately from the prevention of venous thrombosis. Perioperative management of anticoagulation can cause anxiety for patients, surgeons, anesthetists, and those who manage long-term anticoagulant therapy. Good communication between all of these parties is essential to ensure that an optimal management strategy is identified and executed.