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.