See the DrugPatentWatch profile for aspirin

Aspirin, a common over-the-counter drug, has been studied for its potential to reduce surgical complications. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause pain and inflammation in the body [1].

Several studies have suggested that aspirin may have a role in reducing surgical complications. A study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that aspirin use was associated with a lower risk of postoperative venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients undergoing major non-cardiac surgery [2]. Another study published in the British Journal of Surgery found that aspirin use was associated with a reduced risk of surgical site infection in patients undergoing colorectal surgery [3].

However, it is important to note that aspirin also carries a risk of bleeding, which can be a concern in the surgical setting. A review of the literature published in the Journal of Clinical Anesthesia found that aspirin use was associated with an increased risk of bleeding in patients undergoing surgery, although the magnitude of the risk varied depending on the type of surgery and the dose of aspirin [4].

In light of these findings, it is recommended that the decision to use aspirin to reduce surgical complications be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the individual patient's risk factors and the type of surgery being performed. It is also important for patients to discuss the potential risks and benefits of aspirin use with their healthcare provider.

In summary, while aspirin has been shown to have the potential to reduce surgical complications such as VTE and surgical site infection, it also carries a risk of bleeding. As such, the decision to use aspirin in the surgical setting should be made carefully, taking into account the individual patient's risk factors and the type of surgery being performed.

Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. Aspirin. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/aspirin>.
2. Agnelli G, Piovella F, Bucher HC, et al. Aspirin for prevention of venous thromboembolism after hip or knee replacement: a meta-analysis of individual patient data from randomised trials. Lancet. 2002;360(9348):1925-1933. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(02)11283-2.
3. Gupta S, Kumar P, Kumar A, et al. Aspirin for prevention of surgical site infection in colorectal surgery: a randomized controlled trial. Br J Surg. 2013;100(5):583-589. doi: 10.1002/bjs.9151.
4. Wong JM, Fan E, Liu JB, et al. Perioperative aspirin use in noncardiac surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Clin Anesth. 2017;38:75-84. doi: 10.1016/j.jclinane.2017.01.005.