Thyroid surgery and anticoagulation: Survey of practice of endocrine surgeons in Australia

Few studies specifically address management of venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis and bridging anticoagulation therapy in patients undergoing thyroid surgery. A survey about perioperative management of thromboprophylaxis was sent to Australian Endocrine Surgeons. Responses were tabulated and graphed; a p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Survey responses showed a large broad spectrum of practice regarding thromboprophylaxis, bridging therapy and cessation of anticoagulant medication. While anticoagulant prophylaxis in thyroid surgery appears to be relatively safe, there is a theoretical risk of catastrophic bleeding complications; according to this survey of Australian Endocrine Surgeons, thromboembolic events are uncommon complications of thyroid surgery