Name of the Procedure:

Coagulation/Fibrinolysis Assay, Whole Blood (Viscoelastic Clot Assessment)

Summary

A Coagulation/Fibrinolysis Assay is a blood test that evaluates how well your blood clots and dissolves clots. This test is particularly useful for assessing overall clot formation and stability, often using certain medications to better understand clot behavior.

Purpose

This procedure helps diagnose and manage disorders related to abnormal blood clotting. It aims to measure clot formation, stability, and breakdown in whole blood to ensure proper medical management.

Indications

• Unexplained bleeding or clotting
• Monitoring of anticoagulant therapy
• Evaluation before major surgery
• Conditions like hemophilia, thrombosis, or liver disease

Preparation

• Fasting may be required for a few hours prior to the test.
• Review current medications with your doctor; some medications may need to be paused.
• Provide a detailed medical history focusing on bleeding or clotting disorders.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare professional takes a blood sample from your vein.
2. The blood is placed into a special machine that analyzes clot formation and dissolution.
3. Pharmacologic additives may be used to stimulate or inhibit pathways of clotting to gain more insight.
4. The data is interpreted and a detailed report is prepared, highlighting clotting time, strength, and breakdown.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital laboratory or specialized outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Phlebotomists (to draw blood)
• Laboratory Technicians
• Pathologists or Hematologists (to interpret the results)

Risks and Complications

• Minor bruising or discomfort at the blood draw site
• Rarely, infection at the puncture site

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of clotting disorders
• Tailored anticoagulant therapy
• Prevention of complications during surgery
• Better management of bleeding disorders

Recovery

• Minimal recovery time; most people resume normal activities immediately.
• Keep the puncture site clean and dry.
• Follow-up appointments if abnormal results are found.

Alternatives

• Routine blood clotting tests (e.g., PT, aPTT)
• Genetic testing for clotting disorders
• Imaging studies for clot detection (e.g., Doppler ultrasound)

Patient Experience

During the procedure, you might feel a slight pinch when the blood is drawn. Afterward, you may have a small bruise at the puncture site. The test itself is not painful, and results are typically available within a day or two.

Pain management is generally not necessary, but comfort measures include applying a bandage and possibly an ice pack if there is any discomfort.