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Clotting; factor XI (PTA)
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Clotting; Factor XI Testing (PTA)
- Common names: Factor XI Activity Test, PTA Assay
- Technical terms: Plasma Thromboplastin Antecedent Testing
Summary
Factor XI testing measures the activity of factor XI, a protein essential for blood clotting. It's a blood test that helps diagnose disorders related to abnormal clotting.
Purpose
- Medical condition/problem: Detects and evaluates bleeding disorders, specifically factor XI deficiency.
- Goals/outcomes: Determines the level of factor XI in the blood to diagnose and manage bleeding disorders.
Indications
- Symptoms: Unexplained bleeding, heavy menstrual periods, prolonged bleeding after injury or surgery.
- Patient criteria: Family history of bleeding disorders, unusual bleeding tendencies.
Preparation
- Instructions: Generally, no special preparation like fasting is required.
- Diagnostics: A complete medical history and physical examination. Sometimes, other coagulation tests may be conducted alongside.
Procedure Description
Step-by-step:
- A healthcare professional cleans the puncture site.
- A tourniquet is applied to the upper arm to fill veins with blood.
- Blood is drawn from a vein, usually in the arm, using a needle.
- The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
- Tools/Equipment: Needle, syringe, tourniquet, blood collection tubes.
- Anesthesia: Not applicable.
Duration
- Typical duration: The blood draw itself takes about 5-10 minutes.
Setting
- Location: Hospital, outpatient clinic, diagnostic laboratory.
Personnel
- Healthcare professionals: Phlebotomists, laboratory technicians, hematologists, primary care physicians.
Risks and Complications
- Common risks: Bruising at the puncture site, slight discomfort or pain during blood draw.
- Rare complications: Infection, excessive bleeding, fainting.
Benefits
- Expected benefits: Accurate diagnosis of factor XI deficiency, enabling effective management of bleeding disorders.
- Timeline: Results are typically available within a few days, allowing for timely diagnosis and treatment planning.
Recovery
- Post-procedure care: Minimal; apply pressure to the puncture site to stop bleeding.
- Recovery time: Immediate recovery; normal activities can be resumed shortly after the blood draw.
- Follow-up: Follow-up appointments may be needed to discuss test results and treatment options.
Alternatives
- Other options: Comprehensive coagulation panel, genetic testing for bleeding disorders.
- Pros/cons: These alternatives might provide a broader view or genetic insight but could be more costly and not as specific to factor XI.
Patient Experience
- During: Slight pinch or discomfort when the needle is inserted.
- After: Mild soreness at the puncture site, typically resolves within a day.
- Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can be taken if necessary.