Journal of clinical gastroenterology
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J. Clin. Gastroenterol. · Sep 2020
Thromboelastography Better Reflects Hemostatic Abnormalities in Cirrhotics Compared With the International Normalized Ratio.
The goal of this study was to describe potential key differences in thromboelastography (TEG) variables in hospitalized cirrhotics compared with a healthy population, identify patterns of hematologic disturbance with disease progression, and assess the value of traditional tests such as international normalized ratio (INR) and platelet count to determine coagulopathy in cirrhotics. ⋯ Although cirrhotics had TEG parameters within normal ranges, there was a propensity for decreased clot formation as liver function worsened. Importantly, the INR did not correlate with TEG parameters in cirrhotic patients, and given the precarious hemostatic balance in these patients, a TEG may be a better predictor of bleeding risk.