Regular aspirin use has been a topic of interest in the medical community due to its potential impact on surgical procedures. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, aspirin is a common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain relief, reducing inflammation, and preventing blood clots [1].
Studies have shown that regular aspirin use can increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery [2]. Aspirin works by inhibiting the production of thromboxane, a substance in the body that causes platelets to clump together and form blood clots. This antiplatelet effect can lead to increased bleeding during and after surgery, potentially complicating the procedure and recovery process.
However, it is important to note that the increased risk of bleeding associated with aspirin use is generally low, and the benefits of aspirin therapy may outweigh the risks for some patients [3]. For instance, patients with a history of heart disease or stroke may be advised to continue taking aspirin before and after surgery due to its cardiovascular benefits [4].
In conclusion, while regular aspirin use may increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery, the overall risk is generally low. The decision to continue or discontinue aspirin therapy before and after surgery should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, taking into account the individual patient's medical history and risk factors.
Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Aspirin. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/aspirin>
[2] Douketis, J. D., Spyropoulos, A. C., Spencer, F. A., & Kaatz, S. (2015). Perioperative bridging anticoagulation in patients with atrial fibrillation. New England Journal of Medicine, 373(9), 823-833. doi: 10.1056/nejmoa1505339
[3] Fihn, S. D., Blankenship, J. C., Alexander, K. P., Bittl, J. A., Byrne, J. G., Fudim, M., ... & Williams, D. A. (2014). 2014 ACC/AHA/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS focused update of the guideline for the diagnosis and management of patients with stable ischemic heart disease: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines, and the American Association for Thoracic Surgery, Preventive Cardiovascular Nurses Association, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, and Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 64(18), 1929-1949. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2014.07.017
[4] Raskob, G. E., Bhatt, D. L., Halperin, J. L., Jacobson, A., Szarek, M., Hylek, E. M., ... & Jaffer, A. (2019). Antithrombotic therapy for atrial fibrillation: CHEST guideline and expert panel report. Chest, 155(2), 345-361. doi: 10.1016/j.chest.2018.11.010