Patient with End-Stage Liver Disease and Prolonged Prothrombin Time Presents for Placement of a New Dental Implant

Abstract

Dentists should consult with the patient's hepatologist to obtain the most recent medical records with liver function tests and a coagulation panel. In the absence of severe liver dysfunction and with good medical management, dentists may proceed with treatment. Isolated prolongation of prothrombin time does not reflect a risk of bleeding and other coagulation parameters should be assessed. Amide local anesthesia can be safely administered and bleeding is controlled by local hemostatic measures and minimizing trauma. Other aspects of dental treatment that may require modification include the adjustment of doses of certain drugs metabolized by the liver.

Keywords: Cirrhosis; Dental implant; Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease; Oral surgery.