Thromboelastography as a measure of coagulation in high risk pregnant patients receiving low dose aspirin

Abstract

SummaryLow dose aspirin is being used with increasing frequency in certain high risk pregnancies, potentially increasing the risk of haemorrhage. The thromboelas-tograph and bleeding time were performed before and 4 weeks after daily low dose aspirin (75 mg) in 11 high risk pregnant patients. Measured thromboelastograph parameters were unaltered after aspirin although bleeding time was prolonged. Although the thromboelastograph appeared not to detect aspirin-induced changes in platelet function, it measures all phases of coagulation and the unaltered values suggest a functioning coagulation system.