Question:

Can one have colonscopy while on coumadin? I am on coumadin and need a screening colonscopy in a few months. I have atrial fibrillation as well. If coumdain must be removed what is the maxinum INR to consider for the colonscopy? Any information is appreciated.

Answer:

You should check with your doctor who prescribed the coumadin as to whether it can be safely be discontinued, switch you to a shorter acting blood thinner such as Lovenox, or you need to stay on the coumadin. We often do colonoscopies on coumadin with the caveat that if a large polyp is found, we cannot safely remove it. The specific INR threshold depends on the physician’s practice.

For more information:

Go to the Colon Cancer health topic.