Thrombosis research
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Thrombosis research · Jul 2011
Decline in platelet microparticles contributes to reduced hemostatic potential of stored plasma.
In an effort to administer life-saving transfusions quickly, some trauma centers maintain thawed plasma (TP). According to AABB, TP is approved for transfusion for up to five days when stored at 1-6° C. However, the alterations in microparticles (MP) contained in the plasma, which are an integral component of plasma's hemostatic capacity, are not well characterized. We report on MP changes in TP between its initial thaw (FFP-0) and five days (FFP-5) of storage. ⋯ Decline in MP with storage contributes to FFP-5's reduced ability to provide the hemostatic potential exhibited by FFP-0, suggesting the presence of platelet MPs in freshly TP may be beneficial and protective in the initial treatment of hemorrhage.
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Thrombosis research · Jul 2011
Coagulation testing before epidural analgesia at delivery: cost analysis.
The usefulness of coagulation tests performed before epidural analgesia for surgery or to alleviate labour pain is controversial. The aims of this study were: (1) to evaluate the prevalence of abnormal tests in a large cohort of healthy pregnant women and their association with epidural hematoma; (2) to assess the approach of the anesthesiologists to women with abnormal tests; (3) to evaluate the cost of performing coagulation tests before epidural analgesia in all healthy pregnant women. ⋯ Unselected coagulation tests before epidural analgesia are not recommended, because epidural hematoma is extremely rare in healthy pregnant women and the cost of screening is not justified.