A retrospective review of spontaneous epistaxis outcomes for patients on novel oral anticoagulants compared to antiplatelets and warfarin

The incidence of epistaxis-related admissions amongst elderly patients is rising due to the increasing use of anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents. This retrospective study evaluates the differences in outcomes for patients on warfarin, novel anticoagulants (NOACs) and antiplatelets over two different time periods. Retrospective case-control study with data from patients admitted with epistaxis through the Flinders Medical Centre Emergency Department in the first six months of 2013 and compared to the same period in 2018. The latter coincides with integration of NOACs into Australian prescribing practices. Included participants were ≥50 years with spontaneous epistaxis which coincides with peak incidence in adults. Exclusion criteria were epistaxis due to trauma, intrinsic coagulopathy, or recent post-surgery. Linear regression and binary logistic regression models were the statistical methods used. Data from 85 patients were analysed for length of stay (LOS), readmission rates and method of haemostasis. In 2013, 41 patients were included compared to 44 in 2018, suggesting a 7% increase in admissions rates but this was not statistically significant (p = 0.96). The proportion of patients admitted with epistaxis while taking an anticoagulant or antiplatelet agent increased from 66% in 2013 to 93% in 2018. Thirty six percent of patients in 2018 were taking NOACs, however, LOS was 2 times shorter (mean ratio = 2.08 days, 95% CI: 1.03, 4.19). Seven percent of patients in 2018 had bleeding requiring surgery or interventional radiology, compared to 12% in 2013, but this was not statistically significant. There was no statistically significant difference in readmission rates (p = 0.82) or intervention required (p = 0.74) between the two time periods. Epistaxis admissions at our institution have increased since the introduction of NOACs. However, most patients can be managed successfully with intranasal packing and cautery alone. NOACs are not associated with increased rated of invasive haemostatic measures and patients have a shorter LOS.