INTRODUCTION
The novel non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant (NOACs) are now widely accepted as valid alternative of vitamin K antagonist (VKA) in the treatment of non-valvular atrial fibrillation and deep venous thrombosis1-2. Recently, subgroup analyses of randomized trial support initial evidence of the use of NOACs in patients with valvular AF, if not associated with degenerative mitral stenosis, or after three months post bio-prosthesis replacement3.
Their role after cardiac surgery still represents a challenge choice for the heart team in regards of the risks of bleedings events; objective of this study is to compare the incidence of pericardial effusion in patients started on oral anticoagulant after cardiac surgery, to assess if their use is safe and reproducible.