Oral anticoagulants in pediatric cardiac practice: A systematic review of the literature

Abstract

Recent advances in the pediatric heart surgery, especially the Fontan procedure, has necessitated an increased use of oral anticoagulants in pediatric cardiac patients. Warfarin is the standard agent used for most pediatric indications, though there are very few randomized control studies in children regarding its use. This review summarizes the current indications and evidence base regarding the use of oral anticoagulants in the pediatric age group.

Keywords

• Oral anticoagulants
• pediatric practice
• Fontan surgery