Rapid reversal of anticoagulants in trauma patients

Anticoagulation therapies are one of the most commonly encountered therapies by healthcare professionals each day. One of the most important adverse effects of anticoagulation therapy is life-threatening hemorrhage, and it may result in visits to the emergency department. Some of the common reversal agents include vitamin K, protamine sulfate, desmopressin, recombinant factor VIIa, and prothrombin complex concentrates. Each of these agents has the potential to reverse specific anticoagulation therapies, but each agent has a unique administration procedure and monitoring parameters. However, these agents are not without a risk of adverse effects.