The novel oral anticoagulants: an update for the interventional radiologist

Abstract

Objective: Thromboembolic disorders are leading causes of morbidity and mortality, with treatment and prophylaxis a priority. There has been a heavy dependency upon warfarin and heparin for anticoagulation for 60 years. This is likely to change with the emergence of novel oral anticoagulants.

Conclusion: Interventional radiologists are increasingly encountering these medications, and a thorough knowledge of them is essential for appropriate periprocedural management. This article will review these novel agents, their uses, and their pharmacologic profiles and will propose guidelines for periprocedural management.