Can i have cataract surgery if i am using blood thinners like coumadin (warfarin) for another condition?

Yes: Cataract surgery is a blood-less surgery. There is no need to stop Aspirin or Coumadin (warfarin) before cataract surgery.

Absolutely: Modern cataract surgery can be performed without injuring or cutting into blood vessels. For this reason, you do not need to stop blood thinners in advance of surgery. The only potential issue is that you may develop a large bruise where the nurse places your I.V. Prior to surgery.

Cataracts: Coumadin (warfarin) can be continued if the surgeon is planning uncomplicated cataract surgery. If the lens is very dense, the surgeon may need to do an extra-cap, which may increase the risk of bleeding with surgery.

Yes: Most cataract surgery is performed through the cornea which does not have blood vessels. This means that there is no bleeding. The cataract itself also does not have blood vessels. It has been studied and found that stopping blood thinners before cataract surgery is much more dangerous than having the surgery on them.

Yes: Cataract surgery is often performed with clear corneal incisions that do not cause bleeding. No change in Coumadin (warfarin) dose is required. However in some circumstances , a nerve block is used and people on Coumadin (warfarin) are at higher risk for bleeding around the eye and it is suggested to hold the Coumadin (warfarin) dose for a few days prior

Yes: With routine cataract surgery Coumadin (warfarin) and blood thinners can be continues. In specific cases where the surgery may be more complex or complications may be higher then the surgeon may have you discontinue blood thinners.

Yes: With clear cornea surgery, you do not have to stop blood thinners.