ORAL SURGERY IN PATIENTS TAKING WARFARIN: LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Dental treatment performed in patients on anticoagulant drug therapy is becoming increasingly common in dental offices. Thus, questions concerning thromboembolic and bleeding risks relative to invasive dental procedures, are frequently raised. Aim: To review the scientific evidences regarding anticoagulant therapy interruption in patients taking warfarin undergoing oral surgeries. Methods: It was carried out a literature review in the electronic SciELO, PubMed, Lilacs and Oviatt Library databases from January to March of 2016, using as descriptors: Anticoagulants, Warfarin, Oral Surgery, and Oral Hemorrhage. Results and Discussion: Anticoagulant therapy is extremely important in patients at high risk for development of thromboembolic events. Most studies show that the risk of bleeding oral surgery in patients taking warfarin is relatively insignificant and it can be controlled by simple measures such as hemostasis. Conclusion: It is highly recommended to not interrupt anticoagulant in minor oral surgeries.