BLOOD Thinners

This section is designed to guide patients who are currently taking Blood Thinners.

Blood Thinners are used in a variety of reasons, each having their own risks and benefits. Some can be stopped without issues, whereas some need to be continued. This would have already been discussed before your surgery as it is an important and common aspect of safe operating. Please read some of the guidelines below.

• BLOOD THINNERS THAT MUST BE STOPPED: Stronger blood thinners that are often used in conditions such as DVT/PE, Atrial Fibrillation and after heart conditions such as heart attacks. DO NOT STOP your blood thinners without confirming this with either Dr Liew or your anaesthetist. The names of ones that ALWAYS require stopping before surgery include: Warfarin, Xareto, Eloquis, Brillinta, Plavix (Clopidogrel).
  • Warfarin – stop 5 days prior to surgery.
  • Xarelto and Eloquis – stop 3-4 days prior to surgery.
  • Brilliant – stop 2-3 weeks prior to surgery.
  • Plavix – stop 3 weeks prior to surgery. 
• ASPIRIN: Many people are on Aspirin, and the reasons are often widespread. You can safely stop your Aspirin if it was started just for general health reasons. Reasons to NOT stop Aspirin include previous cardiac stenting, previous stroke or if advised by your cardiologist. In general, it is recommended that Aspirin is ceased 2 weeks prior to surgery. You will actually be placed back onto Aspirin after the surgery in most cases. 
• NATURAL SUPPLEMENTS: Some natural medications can thin your blood. In general, these medications are not required and you can safely stop them at least 2 weeks prior to surgery. These include: Glucosamine, Fish Oil, Ginko, Ginger, Garlic, Krill oil and all similar agents.

TIPS: Not all the information on this page will be relevant to your personal situation. If you have queries in relation to this information, please do not hesitate to contact us via Email or Phone to clarify your plan.