Perioperative management of anticoagulation in cardiac surgery: a place for direct anticoagulants?

Abstract

Anticoagulation in the postoperative period of cardiac surgery constitutes a challenge. The timing of initiation, the anticoagulation dose to be used and the type of anticoagulant will depend on the procedure performed, the association of thrombotic and/or hemorrhagic risk factors, and strict clinical monitoring in order to achieve an adequate level of protection and avoid complications during hospital stay. We will analyze three postoperative situations: patients with valve prostheses, atrial fibrillation and prevention of venous thromboembolic disease as well as prevention and management of bleeding complications, adapting treatment to INR levels and presence of bleeding. Multi and interdisciplinary teamwork and the protocolization of the measures to be taken, facilitate the management of these patients and reduces complications, many of which are totally avoidable