stop warfarin prior to surgery or other invasive procedures

November 2004

When should patients stop warfarin prior to surgery or other invasive procedures?

It's complicated. It depends on the risk of bleeding from the procedure...and the patient's risk of thrombosis.

In general, warfarin DOESN'T need to be stopped for procedures with a low risk of bleeding...dental extractions, cataract surgery, upper endoscopy, or colonoscopy.

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stop warfarin prior to surgery or other invasive procedures

Practical advice for a better career, with unlimited access to CE

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