Is anti-platelet therapy interruption a real clinical issue? Its implications in dentistry and particularly in periodontics

• Main Authors: Kumar A, Kumari M, Arora Nupur, Haritha A
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications 2009-01-01
• Series: Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology
• Subjects: Anti-platelet therapy; dental and periodontal treatment; decision-making
• Online Access: http://www.jisponline.com/article.asp?issn=0972-124X;year=2009;volume=13;issue=3;spage=121;epage=125;aulast=Kumar

The use of anti-platelet therapy has reduced the mortality and morbidity of cardiovascular disease remarkably. A considerable number of patients presenting before a dentist or periodontist give a history of anti-platelet therapy. A clinical dilemma whether to discontinue the anti-platelet therapy or continue the same always confronts the practitioner. Diverse opinions exist regarding the management of such patients. While one group of researchers advise continuation of anti-platelet therapy rather than invite remote, but possible, thromboembolic events, another group encourages discontinuation for variable periods. This study aims at reviewing the current rationale of anti-platelet therapy and the various options available to a clinician, with regard to the management of a patient under anti-platelet therapy. Current recommendations and consensus favour no discontinuation of anti-platelet therapy. This recommendation, however, comes with a rider to use caution and consider other mitigating factors as well. With a large number of patients giving a history of anti-platelet therapy, the topic is of interest and helps a clinician to arrive at a decision.