| Theme |
Appropriate Application of New Guidelines for GI Endoscopy in Patients with Antithrombotics |
| Title |
Anticoagulants and Gastrointestinal Endoscopy |
| Author |
Ryuichi Iwakiri |
Department of Internal Medicine & Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, Saga Medical School |
| [ Summary ] |
Previous Japanese guidelines for anticoagulant therapy for patients undergoing endoscopic procedures indicated discontinuation of these medicines before endoscopic procedures to avoid gastrointestinal bleeding. However, discontinuation of anticoagulants sometimes induces severe thrombotic diseases. New guidelines take these factors into consideration. Endoscopic biopsy and low risk endoscopic procedures are possible without discontinuation of anticoagulants. However, endoscopists must confirm complete hemostasis before conducting procedures. Adequate judgment as to the execution of endoscopic procedures is required in relation to patients' conditions in relation to endoscopy. |