Anesthesiology
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Editorial Comment
Unraveling the mysteries of sleep-disordered breathing in children.
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Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Quantifying the effect of antiplatelet therapy: a comparison of the platelet function analyzer (PFA-100) and modified thromboelastography (mTEG) with light transmission platelet aggregometry.
Antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel is known to confer protection against ischemic events. Increasing numbers of patients are presenting for surgery while taking these drugs. This may lead to an increase in perioperative blood loss, particularly in those who have a heightened response to the drugs. Identifying these patients preoperatively would allow us to plan appropriate management. ⋯ The search for a point-of-care monitor of platelet function has been the focus of much research. This study has shown that the modified thromboelastograph can be used for monitoring the effect of clopidogrel as well as aspirin. It potentially has a wide scope to be used for the monitoring of effectiveness of therapy as well as a possible predictor of perioperative bleeding.