Dabigatran Etexilate Mesylate: Management Before Invasive Radiology Procedures

• Published in: Journal of radiology nursing Vol. 32; no. 2; pp. 66 - 69
• Main Author: Burbridge, Brent E.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Mosby, Inc 01.06.2013
• Subjects: Anticoagulation; Canada; Clinical guidelines; Dabigatran; Guidelines; Invasive; Radiology; Vascular and interventional radiology; Anticoagulation; Dabigatran; Vascular and interventional radiology; Guidelines
• ISSN: 1546-0843; 1555-9912
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jradnu.2013.02.005

Dabigatran etexilate mesylate (dabigatran) is a novel, orally ingested, competitive antithrombin anticoagulant recently approved for clinical use in Canada (Pradax) and the United States (Pradaxa). Guidelines or clinical protocols were sought discussing the management of dabigatran before invasive radiology procedures. A literature search was performed (2002-2012) to determine if there were any publications discussing bleeding complications related to dabigatran and invasive radiology and/or any guidelines discussing the management of dabigatran before invasive radiology procedures. Five publications were identified related to the management of dabigatran before surgical or invasive procedures. There were no radiology-specific guidelines for the management of dabigatran before invasive radiology procedures. Guidelines related to surgical intervention and neurointervention were available. Dabigatran must be included in the list of medications that are screened for before invasive radiology procedures. Guidance is provided for the discontinuation of this medication before invasive radiology procedures.