Plavix and Surgery

Abstract

Clopidogrel is a suicide inhibitor of ADP receptors on platelets preventing ADP activation of GPIIb/IIIa and subsequently preventing platelet aggregation. While this is beneficial in preventing thrombotic events, in the setting of surgery it can lead to increases in major bleeding events, require more blood and platelet transfusions, and even lead to further operations to correct for hemorrhage. Current recommendations suggest stopping clopidogrel prior to surgery. This pamphlet describes the function of platelets, function of clopidogrel and finally summarizes the current recommendations for antiplatlet therapy and surgery.