Periprocedural Anticoagulation

Management of patients taking anticoagulants around the time of procedures is a common and complex clinical scenario. Providing evidence-based care requires estimation of risk for thrombosis and bleeding, knowledge of commonly used medications, multidisciplinary communication and collaboration, and patient engagement and education. This review provides a standardized, evidence-based approach to periprocedural management of anticoagulation, based on current evidence and expert clinical guidelines.

Use this article to:

  • List at least 5 common scenarios in which decisions need to be made about management of periprocedural anticoagulation. Would you continue anticoagulation in each scenario?
  • Review procedures during which it is typically safe to continue anticoagulation.
  • Review procedures during which it is typically necessary to interrupt anticoagulation.
  • If anticoagulation needs to be interrupted, how would you do this for patients using warfarin and for patients using direct oral anticoagulants?
  • Test your knowledge by completing the quiz that accompanies the article and then review the correct answers.

Annals of Internal Medicine is the premier internal medicine academic journal published by the American College of Physicians (ACP). It is one of the most widely cited and influential specialty medical journals in the world.

Back to the May 2023 issue of ACP IMpact