A comparison of thromboelastogram and template bleeding time in the evaluation of platelet function after aspirin ingestion.
OBJECTIVE
To compare template bleeding time (TBT) with thromboelastography (TEG) in human subjects after aspirin ingestion.


METHODS
Healthy volunteers were given a single 650 mg dose of aspirin or a dose of 650 mg of aspirin on three successive days. TBT and TEG studies were performed prior to aspirin ingestion and 4, 24, 72, and 168 hours after ingestion.


METHODS
Inpatient operating room support area at the UCLA Center for Health Sciences.


METHODS
Residents and nurses who were in good general health, had not taken aspirin for 2 weeks, had normal platelet counts, and had no evidence of bleeding or coagulation disorders.


METHODS
TBT and TEG studies were performed prior to and after the ingestion of aspirin.


RESULTS
TBT studies were significantly prolonged at 4, 24, and 72 hours compared with controls. Maximum bleeding time prolongation occurred 24 hours after aspirin ingestion. Bleeding time returned to control values by the end of 168 hours (1 week). No TEG parameter was significantly changed by aspirin ingestion.


CONCLUSIONS
TEG results may not identify patients who have an increased bleeding time as a result of aspirin ingestion.
Trentalange
M J
MJ
Department of Anesthesiology, UCLA School of Medicine 90024-1778.
Walts
L F
LF
D000328:Adult; D001241:Aspirin / Q000494:pharmacology*; D001760:Bleeding Time; D001792:Blood Platelets / Q000187:drug effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013916:Thrombelastography; D013997:Time Factors
D001241:Aspirin