Endoscopic Hemostasis and Antithrombotic Management

Abstract

This review highlights the available literature for antithrombotic management and hemostasis techniques that can be leveraged when caring for patients on antithrombotic medications who may develop gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB). Risks of both index GIB as well as risk of recurrent GIB are reviewed with emphasis on the balance between therapeutic benefits and bleeding hazards that are inherent with these medications. For management of these complications, an in-depth review of the various endoscopic hemostasis techniques that can be utilized is also provided.

Keywords: Antithrombotic medications; Endoscopic hemostasis; Gastrointestinal bleed; Nonvariceal bleed; Recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding.