Antiplatelet and anticoagulation medications and the surgical patient

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Surgical Care
• Coagulation Science

Background:

• Acute coronary syndrome and atrial fibrillation affect millions, necessitating antiplatelet and anticoagulant use.
• These medications are crucial for treating cardiovascular conditions but impact surgical patient management.
• Understanding drug pharmacology is vital for surgeons caring for patients on coagulation-altering medications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pharmacology of agents affecting blood coagulation.
• To provide surgeons with essential knowledge for managing patients on these medications.
• To discuss reversal strategies for common anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature review was conducted.
• Recent studies on pharmacologic agents affecting coagulation were analyzed.
• Information on drug properties and reversal methods was compiled.

Main Results:

• Various medications that alter normal coagulation were identified and reviewed.
• Key pharmacologic properties of these agents were detailed.
• Effective reversal strategies for different drug classes were discussed.

Conclusions:

• Numerous medications impact patient coagulation, including novel agents.
• This review equips surgeons with critical knowledge for patient care.
• Understanding these drugs enhances surgical outcomes for patients on antithrombotics.