[New oral anticoagulants and endoscopy--what do you have to consider?]

Anti-coagulated patients often undergo endoscopic procedures and non-vitamin-K-antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOAC) are increasingly prescribed. Consequently, a comprehensive knowledge about the adequate peri-interventional handling of these substances is required. A standardized approach needs to be planned for elective and emergency situations. As a result of their pharmacokinetics, the peri-endoscopic management of NOAC is relatively easy - an heparin "bridging"/"switching" is usually not required. In case of a severe NOAC bleeding endoscopic treatment must be considered at an early stage.