Literature review of surgery management in inhibitor patients

A careful review of the available literature has shown with a moderate degree of evidence that surgery can be safely performed in haemophilic patients with either low-responding or high-responding inhibitors. Until recently, it was generally advised that surgery should be carried out in high responding haemophilic patients only if absolutely necessary, i.e. in emergency situations. Elective surgery was usually discouraged, with the exception of the placing of an indwelling catheter to carry out immune tolerance protocols. However, in reality elective surgery is often advisable in haemophilic patients with inhibitors because it may lead to an improved quality of life. At the present time, several options of treatment exist which appear to be sufficiently safe to assure haemostasis in different surgical procedures However, a more informed choice between different treatment options, based on estimation of advantages and risks linked to each treatment modality is desirable. Furthermore, the choice between different options has to be made taking into consideration costs of treatment. Ideally, randomised prospective studies are needed in order to provide a higher level of evidence of safety and efficacy of different treatment options and specifically comparing the two main bypassing options:activated prothrombin complex concentrates (aPCCs) and recombinant factor (rF)VIIa. In addition, such studies should be done with an adequate protocol, providing sufficient haematological data and an appropriate prolonged postoperative assessment.