All medical procedures carry some risks, and surgical and medication risks are no exception. Each of us is unique, and what may be right for one might not apply to another. That’s why it’s crucial to discuss individual risk factors and a plan with your managing clinician before deciding whether to stop or continue your current medication for a procedure. This helps minimize the risks of any potential complications and ensures that you receive the optimum care based on your specific needs.
When it comes to preparing for surgery, it’s important to discuss how certain medications might impact the risk of complications. For example, stopping an anticoagulant medication before surgery could increase the chance of blood clots and a stroke, while continuing these medications may result in excessive bleeding in various areas and, consequently, serious complications.
Deciding what may be best for you requires a careful evaluation by both yourself and your healthcare provider. This includes a comprehensive review of your medical history, laboratory tests, imaging, and consideration of your lifestyle habits. The results of this evaluation may help determine whether medications need to be halted or not and what precautions need to be taken to minimize the risk of bleeding, stroke, or other complications
It is not just the medications. It’s also vital to discuss any dietary supplements with your doctor when you plan to have a surgical procedure. For example, some herbal supplements like turmeric that act as blood thinners may also need to be stopped a few weeks before some neurosurgical and other procedures to reduce the risks of bleeding.
Dealing with these complicated decisions can be difficult. However, it is very important to discuss and consider all the alternatives with your healthcare provider. That would help formulate a plan with them to minimize the risk of complications that may be serious and, in some circumstances, fatal.