Thromboelastometry

Thromboelastometry (pronounced: throm-bo-elasto-metry) is a method used in coagulation studies to assess the viscoelastic properties of blood. It is a test that measures the ability of blood to clot, the speed at which it clots, and the quality of the clot.

Etymology

The term "Thromboelastometry" is derived from three Greek words: "Thrombos" meaning clot, "Elastos" meaning stretchable, and "Metron" meaning measure. Thus, it literally means the measurement of the stretchability of a clot.

Procedure

Thromboelastometry is performed using a device called a Thromboelastograph. A small sample of blood is placed in a heated cup, to which a pin attached to a torsion wire is inserted. The cup is then oscillated back and forth. As the blood begins to clot, it impedes the movement of the pin. The resistance to the pin's movement is measured and plotted on a graph, providing a visual representation of the clotting process.

Clinical Significance

Thromboelastometry is used in various clinical settings, including surgery, trauma, obstetrics, and intensive care units. It helps in the diagnosis of bleeding disorders, monitoring of anticoagulant therapy, and guiding blood transfusion strategies.

Related Terms

Coagulation: The process by which blood changes from a liquid to a gel, forming a clot.
Thromboelastograph: The device used to perform Thromboelastometry.
Bleeding disorders: Medical conditions that result in an abnormality in the body's clotting (coagulation) process.
Anticoagulant therapy: The use of drugs to prevent blood clots from forming in the body.
Blood transfusion: The process of transferring blood or blood products into a person's circulation intravenously.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Thromboelastometry
Wikipedia's article - Thromboelastometry

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Thromboelastometry