Hemophilia

Surgery

There is no surgical treatment for hemophilia. But the complications of hemophilia, such as joint problems, bleeding around the brain, or swelling that causes pressure buildup in an arm or a leg (compartment syndrome), may require surgery.

Blood-clotting factor replacement is needed before, during, and after any surgical procedure, including some dental procedures.

A person who has mild hemophilia may be given an antifibrinolytic agent or desmopressin acetate before dental procedures. Clotting factors, antifibrinolytic agents, fibrin glue, and possibly desmopressin acetate are usually used in combination to control bleeding in the mouth.

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Author:	Robin Parks, MS	Last Updated: August 20, 2007
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Brian Leber, MDCM, FRCPC - Hematology
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