How Often Are Patients Advised to Stop Aspirin for Endoscopic Procedures?

Most available evidence indicates that aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) do not increase the risk for bleeding after polypectomy, though some evidence suggests that bleeding risk is increased with large polyps. The American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy recommends that aspirin and NSAIDs may be continued for all endoscopic procedures (http://www.asge.org/uploadedFiles/Publications_and_Products/Practice_Guidelines/PIIS0016510709025498.pdf).

To explore practice patterns in this area, researchers surveyed online colonoscopy-preparation instructions from 317 U.S. endoscopy units (54% ambulatory surgery centers, 46% hospital-based outpatient units).

Of the units, 44% recommended continuing aspirin through colonoscop…