Evaluation of role of antiplatelet therapy on bleeding after dental extraction

Abstract

Aims and Objectives: Antiplatelet therapy results in altered platelet function and increased bleeding time (BT). The present study was done to evaluate antiplatelet therapy on bleeding after dental extraction. Materials and Methods: In this prospective case–control study, a total of 150 patients requiring dental extraction were divided into two equal groups; Group I: with 75 patients on antiplatelet therapy and Group II: with 75 patients who have discontinued antiplatelet therapy 5 days before the dental extraction. Informed consent was obtained from the participants, and ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Ethical Committee. Prior to extraction, BT of all the participants was recorded. Simple extraction for single-molar tooth was done in both the groups under local anesthesia. Suturing followed by pressure pack was placed after extraction. BT after extraction was statistically compared between the groups after 1 h and 24 h using Chi-square test with P < 0.05. Results: None of the patients in both the groups showed active bleeding 1 h and 24 h postoperatively. No bleeding was seen in 71 patients in Group I and 74 patients in Group II after 24 h. Conclusion: The present study showed no significant difference in BT in both the groups. Hence, single-tooth extraction can be done in patients on long-term antiplatelet therapy without discontinuation or alteration of medication.