Question:
Surgery on coumadin

I was recently diagnosed with a blood clot in my leg just below the knee, and one in my lungs. I'm now on coumadin. Has anyone had surgery while on coumadin, what are the risks?    — Gina R. (posted on September 8, 2000)

September 8, 2000
Hi there! I'll tell you what I know. I regulated patients Coumadin for 5 years for blood clots. There are risks taking the medicine for one, and very high risks for not taking it. Just make sure you really follow the doctors instructions to the "T" with this med. Go for regular test, etc. As far as surgery, as long as the doctor stops your coumadin and you get a protime to test your blood (morning of procedure usually) you should be relatively safe. You do understand if your blood results are high (too thin) They would cancel procedure and hold your dose for a little. I would ask my doctor for the numbers (results) and ask him which range he would prefer you in, for surgery. Get involved because coumadin and blood clots are a serious thing and to be handled carefully. Good Luck! Vicki Crabtree, M.A.
   — VIXYVIX

November 30, 2002
I AM CURRENYLY ON 12.5 GRAMS PER DAY. I AM HAVING RNY ON DEC.2 BTC(DOING SURGERY) PUT ME ON LOVANOX FOR 5 DAYS BEFORE. THEY SAY, NOT A PROBLEM. DON'T WORRY, THEY CAN HELP YOU NO MATTER WHAT THE PROBLEM. GOOD LUCK!!!
   — SHEREE H.

February 9, 2003
I am on coumadin and had open rny on 6-4-02, for 7-10 before surgery I took a vitamin k pill and lovenox shots every 12 hours and came through surgery and have recovered just fine with no complications. Remember to get up and walk as fast as you can which can reduce your chances for blood clots. I had had one clot in thr right leg and two in left lung two years before surgery. I have lost 170 pounds in 8 months!!
   — Trina J.