Intraocular lenses and anticoagulation and antiplatelet therapy

Questionnaires were sent to 200 members of the American Intra-Ocular Implant Society to assess the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative management trends with intraocular lens implant patients on warfarin sodium and aspirin therapy. Responses were received from 135 members. A sizable majority of practitioners (75%) withhold warfarin sodium both prior to and following surgery. In many cases, the medicine is withheld for longer than is necessary, increasing the risk of medical complications. Respondents slightly favored (53%) discontinuing aspirin, which is perceived to be less harmful than warfarin sodium, preoperatively. Although management decisions must be individualized, according to both the surgeon's technique and the particular patient, certain general guidelines are applicable.