rivaroxaban and Intestinal-Obstruction

Rivaroxaban is a member of the novel target-specific oral anticoagulants (TSOACs) family of drugs recently approved for the prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism events. A major drawback of the drug is its potential for causing severe hemorrhagic events, which may be difficult to treat in an emergency setting due to lack of effective antidote. Here, we describe a case of acute gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage leading to complete colon obstruction in a patient treated with rivaroxaban. Summary and Key Messages: The case presented here demonstrates a chain of events originating from an unprovoked intramural bleeding in a patient using rivaroxaban, leading to an organized giant clot formation, and to complete colon obstruction. In the available literature, the specific site of the GI bleeding has not been discussed. A further study is recommended and re-examination of bleeding events and exploration of new cases due to the use of TSOACs can help predict the course and the outcomes of such complications.

Topics: Acute Disease; Aged; Colon; Diagnosis, Differential; Factor Xa Inhibitors; Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage; Humans; Intestinal Obstruction; Male; Rivaroxaban