Practical aspects concerning the use of anticoagulants in urology

Two aspects are considered: the prevention of peri-operative venous thromboembolism, and the management of antiplatelet agents (APA) and anticoagulants during the peri-operative period. Thrombotic and haemorrhagic risk factors linked to the patient and to urological surgical procedures are recalled. A decision whether to initiate preventive therapy for peri-operative venous thromboembolism will be based on analysis of these risk factors and of the risk/benefit ratio. The methods for this preventive treatment are recalled. Practical examples in urology are used to illustrate the application of these principles. Similarly, the indications, and thrombotic and haemorrhagic risk factors related to anti-platelet agents and anticoagulants during the peri-operative period are recalled. A decision whether or not to withdraw these anti-platelet agents or anticoagulants will be based on an analysis of their indications, these risk factors and an assessment of the risk/benefit ratio. Replacement therapies are reviewed. Practical examples in the urological setting are given regarding application of these principles. (C) 2006 Elsevier SAS. Tous droits reserves.