Name of the Procedure:

Clot Lysis Time, Whole Blood Dilution
Also known as: Whole Blood Lysis Time, Clot Dissolution Test

Summary

The clot lysis time test measures how long it takes for a blood clot to dissolve. This is typically evaluated by diluting a sample of whole blood and observing the clot dissolution process.

Purpose

The test is used to assess the body's ability to break down blood clots. It is particularly useful in diagnosing and monitoring conditions related to abnormal clotting and bleeding.

Indications

• Unexplained bleeding or bruising
• Suspected disorders of fibrinolysis (i.e., the body's process of breaking down clots)
• Monitoring response to anticoagulant therapy
• Suspected thromboembolic disorders

Preparation

• Patients may need to refrain from eating or drinking (fast) for a few hours before the test.
• Certain medications, especially blood thinners, might need to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued.
• Blood sample collection will be arranged, typically requiring standard pre-test blood draw preparations.

Procedure Description

1. A blood sample is drawn from a vein in the patient's arm.
2. The blood is then mixed with a dilution agent.
3. The mixture is observed to see how quickly the blood clot dissolves.
4. The time taken for the clot to fully dissolve is recorded.

Tools and Equipment:

• Sterile needles and syringes
• Blood collection tubes
• Dilution agents and specific reagents for clot lysis testing
• A timer or a specialized lab setup for real-time observation

Anesthesia or Sedation: Not typically required

Duration

The procedure typically lasts about 30 minutes to an hour, including the time for blood collection and observation.

Setting

This test is usually performed in a hospital or specialized laboratory setting.

Personnel

• Phlebotomist or nurse for blood draw
• Laboratory technician or technologist to analyze the sample

Risks and Complications

• Minor risks such as bruising or infection at the blood draw site
• Rarely, fainting or dizziness during blood collection

Benefits

• Helps diagnose bleeding disorders and potential clotting abnormalities
• Aids in monitoring and adjusting anticoagulant treatments
• Provides critical information for managing conditions related to abnormal clotting

Recovery

• No specific recovery time or special care is required post-procedure.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately unless advised otherwise due to medication adjustments.

Alternatives

• D-dimer test: Measures a substance released when a blood clot breaks up, providing indirect information about clotting.
• Thromboelastography (TEG): Provides comprehensive data about the clotting process.
• Physicians might choose alternative or additional tests based on the patient's specific condition and medical history.

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort from the blood draw, similar to a standard blood test.
• Patients might feel a slight pinch or sting when the needle is inserted.
• Generally, patients experience no pain during the observation phase of the test itself.