Management of bleeding in patients on direct oral anticoagulants in emergency department: where we are and where we are going

Abstract

Many patients who access in the emergency department for acute bleeding are on anticoagulants; before specific reversal agents were developed, bleeding on anticoagulants was burdened with a substantial increase in morbidity and mortality. Clinical trials demonstrated favourable risk-benefit profiles of direct-acting oral anticoagulants compared with vitamin K antagonists in patients with atrial fibrillation and compared with low molecular weight heparin in patients treated and prevented from venous thromboembolism. Even if they drastically reduced some types of bleeding, particularly intracranial haemorrhage, they have not completely eliminated this risk. The arrival of a patient with active bleeding in the emergency department is always a critical scenario that involves resources and costs. In critical setting, the diagnosis and treatment of bleeding should occurred simultaneously. Understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms that occur during bleeding is essential for establish the most appropriate therapies and improve the standard of care of the haemorrhagic patients.

Clinical Characteristics and Incidence of Hemorrhagic Complications in Patients Taking Factor Xa Inhibitors in Spain: A Long-Term Observational Study

“…The management of patients with major bleeding is complex, as many factors need to be considered, including the level of awareness of bleeding risks and the management of DOAC-related bleeds, including the use of specific reversal agents when required [ 15 , 16 ]. As a result, it is necessary to foster a more comprehensive approach to address anticoagulant-related bleeding complications.…”