Resuming anticoagulant therapy following a surgical procedure requires careful consideration of bleeding risks versus the risk of thromboembolic events. The timing of restarting medications like apixaban, an anticoagulant marketed under the brand name Eliquis, depends on several factors, including the type of surgery, the patient’s individual risk factors for bleeding and clotting, and the surgeon’s assessment. For example, a patient undergoing minor surgery may be able to restart their medication sooner than a patient who has undergone major surgery.
Appropriate management of anticoagulation therapy in the perioperative period is crucial for patient safety. Unnecessary delays in restarting anticoagulants can increase the risk of potentially life-threatening complications such as stroke or pulmonary embolism. Conversely, premature resumption can lead to excessive bleeding. Historically, managing this balance has been challenging. Advances in surgical techniques, a deeper understanding of coagulation pathways, and the development of newer anticoagulants have improved the ability to personalize perioperative anticoagulation strategies. This personalized approach aims to minimize both bleeding and thrombotic risks.
