Perioperative Elective Management in Patients Treated with Direct Oral Anticoagulants – Practical Guide

<b>Introduction:</b> Despite clear, relatively easy-to-use guidance, many clinicians find the perioperative management of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) challenging. Inappropriate antithrombotic management can delay procedures and lead to bleeding or thromboembolic complications.<b>Aim:</b> We aimed to describe perioperative management practices related to planned procedures regarding DOACs in accordance with the applicable guidelines of cardiological and surgical societies.<b>Results:</b> Perioperative management of DOAC therapy depends on many factors, and recommendations in the guidelines are not consistent.<b>Conclusions:</b> The best approach to managing these patients is therefore to strike a balance between the risks of bleeding and thromboembolism.