The effect of Vitamin K antagonists as anticoagulants on bleeding in patients post-dental procedures

Abstract

Background: Individuals undergoing continuous treatment and taking vitamin K antagonist (VKA) and other anticoagulant medications are at a higher risk of experiencing bleeding complications during and after dental surgery procedures. Objective: To determine the effect of vitamin K antagonists in post-dental procedure patients by exploring existing literature on managing patients on vitamin K antagonist therapy as anticoagulants. Methods: This research utilized a literature review based on a database search of studies published between 2019-2024. The literature search used strategies with the terms “Tooth extraction bleeding,” “Odontectomy bleeding,” “Vitamin K Antagonist,” and “Anticoagulant,” utilizing databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, and SCOPUS related to the research topic and meeting eligibility criteria. The studies were then reviewed, summarized, and conclusions were drawn using tables to reveal all data regarding study characteristics and results. Results: Patients using anticoagulants are categorized as high risk for bleeding when undergoing invasive dentistry procedures. VKA is the most commonly used anticoagulant to prevent blood clotting. The consumption of VKA does not significantly affect bleeding post-procedure. Dental procedures can be performed on patients taking anticoagulants without discontinuing the therapy. Conclusion: Based on several studies from various literature sources, it can be concluded that dental procedures in patients taking vitamin K antagonist anticoagulants can still be performed without the risk of bleeding complications with proper local hemostatic measures and perioperative management.