Perioperative Coagulation Monitoring

The main goal of perioperative coagulation monitoring is to improve safety of patients undergoing surgical procedures. Various conditions can affect the coagulation system during surgery and bleeding. The value of traditional standard coagulation tests is limited in detecting hemostatic dysfunctions and they are particularly ineffective in diagnosing hyperfibrinolysis. This article reports on key issues and pathophysiologic changes that affect the hemostatic system in the perioperative setting. Values of preoperative coagulation tests are discussed and the basic principles for point-of-care coagulation devices, including platelet analyzers and their clinical use, are evaluated.