Physiologic mechanisms of hemostasis and fibrinolysis

This article describes the interrelated processes and homeostatic controlling mechanisms of hemostasis and fibrinolysis. Hemostasis involves platelets, blood vessels, and coagulation proteins. Primary hemostasis is dependent on platelet adhesion, activation, secretion, and aggregation. Secondary hemostasis consists of intrinsic activation, extrinsic activation, and the common final pathway. Fibrinolysis results in clot dissolution and is initiated endogenously as plasminogen is converted to plasmin.