Monitoring of platelets, coagulation and fibrinolysis in critical care

Abstract

This report reviews the recent developments in platelet, coagulation and fibrinolysis monitoring for critically ill patients. Initially the report reviews hemorrhagic and thrombotic tendencies, diagnosis and treatment methods, and artificial apparatuses that need monitoring for platelet, coagulation and fibrinolysis. Thereafter, detailed monitoring for platelet, coagulation and fibrinolysis was introduced and discussed. Finally, the activated clotting time, a thromboelastgraph, an activated thromboelastgraph, and a waveform analysis of the clotting test were reviewed. Further developments in the management and treatment of critically ill patients by using such platelet, coagulation and fibrinolysis monitoring system are thus anticipated.