The effects of platelet transfusions evaluated using rotational thromboelastometry.
BACKGROUND
In this study, we assessed the immediate effects of platelet transfusion on whole blood coagulation.


METHODS
Ten thrombocytopenic patients given a single unit platelet transfusion of 200-300 x 10(9) platelets had their coagulation status assessed before and immediately after transfusion using rotational thromboelastometry.


RESULTS
Transfusion increased the median platelet count from 31.5 to 43.5 x 10(9)/L. Clot formation time decreased by 32% (P = 0.005), whereas maximum clot strength increased by 47% (P = 0.005).


CONCLUSIONS
Statistically significant improvements in rotational thromboelastometry-measured parameters were observed in association with a mean increase of 12 x 109/L in platelet count after platelet transfusion in these patients.
Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Lund University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.
Per
P
Flisberg
Malin
M
Rundgren
Martin
M
Engström
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001777:Blood Coagulation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010976:Platelet Count; D017713:Platelet Transfusion; D012399:Rotation; D013916:Thrombelastography; D013921:Thrombocytopenia / Q000097:blood / Q000628:therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult