New oral anticoagulants - a guide for ENT surgeons.

BACKGROUND

New oral anticoagulants have been developed to overcome the perceived disadvantages of more traditional anticoagulants such as heparin and warfarin, and their use amongst ENT patients have been increasing.

OBJECTIVES

This review article aims to discuss the mechanism of action of new oral anticoagulants, when they should be used and a protocol for their use, in both the bleeding patient and in the peri-operative setting.

CONCLUSION

It is important that ENT surgeons are aware of the use of new oral anticoagulants, and have a departmental- and trust-based policy on their use and reversal in bleeding and surgical patients.