coagulopathy
Pronunciation: koh-AG-yuh-lop-ah-thee
Impaired blood clotting function, common during and after cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass.
Full Definition
A disorder of blood coagulation that frequently occurs during cardiac surgery due to multiple factors including hypothermia, hemodilution, platelet dysfunction, and consumption of clotting factors. Cardiopulmonary bypass activates multiple inflammatory and coagulation pathways, leading to both bleeding and thrombotic complications. Coagulopathy in cardiac surgery requires multimodal management including factor replacement, platelet transfusion, antifibrinolytic agents, and point-of-care testing to guide therapy. The condition significantly impacts postoperative bleeding and may require surgical re-exploration.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from specific clotting factor deficiencies or platelet disorders.
In Context
- "Postoperative coagulopathy was managed with fresh frozen plasma and platelet transfusion." — ICU progress note
- "The patient developed significant coagulopathy requiring factor VIIa administration." — Operative report