How much does the specialist know about cardiogastroenterology?

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Gastroenterology
• Internal Medicine
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease is a growing public health concern, necessitating widespread antithrombotic therapy.
• Cardiogastroenterology addresses the gastrointestinal effects and complications associated with antithrombotic treatments.
• Effective management requires a strong understanding of antithrombotic pharmacology and associated risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the knowledge of gastroenterology and internal medicine specialists and residents regarding cardiogastroenterology.
• To evaluate understanding of antithrombotic therapy pharmacology, prescription, and gastrointestinal risks.
• To identify gaps in knowledge for targeted educational interventions.

Main Methods:

• A validated 30-item questionnaire was administered to 194 physicians (residents and specialists).
• The survey covered indications, pharmacology, risk assessment for bleeding and thrombosis, and antithrombotic use during endoscopy.
• Sufficient knowledge was defined as achieving 60% or more correct answers.

Main Results:

• Only 20.6% of participants demonstrated sufficient cardiogastroenterology knowledge.
• Residents outperformed specialists, with gastroenterology residents showing the highest scores (70%).
• All groups lacked sufficient knowledge in evaluating gastrointestinal bleeding and thrombosis risks.

Conclusions:

• A significant knowledge gap in cardiogastroenterology exists among surveyed physicians.
• There is a clear need for improved medical education on the appropriate use of antithrombotic therapy.
• Targeted programs are essential to enhance physician competence in managing antithrombotic therapy and its complications.