Blood Thinners Before Bariatric Surgery

Medically Reviewed by Katelyn J. Mock, US-Registered Dietician (R.D.)

You would need to discontinue blood thinners before bariatric surgery.

• • 2 weeks prior to surgery, you’d need to stop blood thinners like aspirin
  • 2 days prior to surgery, you need to stop anti-clotting drugs.

This prevents severe bleeding through the procedure.

It is very important to discuss all the medications you’re on, with your bariatric surgeon.

Disclaimer: Weight loss results may vary. We do not guarantee any specific results.

Why Discontinue Blood Thinners?

The rationale behind the use of blood thinners is simple – prevention of blood clots.

But, by thinning the blood, we increase the risk for bleeding and lower the chances of recuperation.

Your bariatric surgeon may ask you to start anti-coagulants within 18-24 hrs into the surgery, but only if the surgeon feels that there is no danger of bleeding.

The study also suggests that in case there is major bleeding due to anticoagulants, it is directly linked to delayed wound healing, immobilization and extended hospitalization ^[1]Sunkara T, et al. Perioperative Management of Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs). 2016;9(Suppl 1):25-36.
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Note: The main aim is to increase the efficacy of the procedure while maintaining the safety of the patient. Consult your doctor/surgeon before discontinuing blood thinners.

Reference

1. Sunkara T, et al. Perioperative Management of Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs). 2016;9(Suppl 1):25-36.