Peri-operative diagnosis and treatment of platelet disorders

Abstract

The important role of platelets in the physiology and pathophysiology of haemostasis was acknowledged after the introduction of the cellbased model of coagulation.1 Hyperactive platelets may contribute to stent thrombosis or disseminated microembolism, leading to organ dysfunction.2,3 Platelet inhibition may provoke peri-operativen bleeding, independent of platelet counts.4,5 Taken together, on-site diagnosis of actual platelet reactivity may permit rapid and goaldirected therapeutic interventions in patients at risk. There is still no consensus on the appropriate method for measuring platelet function. In this refresher course lecture Platelet Funktion Analyzer PFA-100 and Multiple Electrode Aggregometry MEA will be discussed among other tests for the perioperative use.