The effects of platelet transfusions evaluated using rotational thromboelastometry.

Abstract

In this study, we assessed the immediate effects of platelet transfusion on whole blood coagulation. 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. 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). 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.