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09:04
Comprehensive Evaluation of the Effectiveness and Safety of Placenta-Targeted Drug Delivery Using Three Complementary Methods
Published on: September 10, 2018
Perioperative use of methotrexate
1Rheumazentrum Ruhrgebiet, Herne, Germany. frankheldmann@hotmail.com
Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology
|November 4, 2010
Summary
Methotrexate (MTX) is a key drug for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Current evidence indicates it is safe to continue MTX around elective surgeries, improving disease control.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Pharmacology
- Surgical Science
Background:
- Methotrexate (MTX) is the primary disease-modifying antirheumatic drug for rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
- Patients with RA frequently require elective surgical procedures.
- Uncertainty exists regarding the perioperative management of MTX in RA patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of continuing Methotrexate (MTX) during the perioperative period for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
- To clarify current recommendations for MTX use in patients undergoing elective surgery.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature and available data on MTX use in the perioperative setting.
- Analysis of evidence regarding the impact of MTX interruption versus continuation on disease activity and surgical outcomes.
Main Results:
- Available data do not support the routine discontinuation of MTX for elective surgery.
- Evidence suggests that continuing MTX perioperatively is safe for RA patients.
- Interrupting weekly MTX administration may lead to poorer disease control.
Conclusions:
- Methotrexate (MTX) does not need to be discontinued for elective surgical procedures in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
- Continuing MTX perioperatively is safe and beneficial for maintaining disease control in RA patients.
- Clinicians should consider the evidence supporting uninterrupted MTX therapy around surgery.
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