coagulopathy
Pronunciation: ko-ag-yuh-LOP-ah-thee
A disorder affecting blood clotting mechanisms, commonly encountered after cardiac surgery requiring cardiopulmonary bypass.
Full Definition
Coagulopathy in cardiac surgery refers to disrupted hemostatic function resulting from multiple factors including cardiopulmonary bypass, hypothermia, hemodilution, and anticoagulation. The extracorporeal circuit activates platelets and coagulation factors while heparin administration prevents clotting during bypass. Post-bypass coagulopathy may manifest as excessive bleeding requiring blood product transfusion, re-exploration, or pharmacological intervention. Contributing factors include platelet dysfunction, factor consumption, fibrinolysis, and residual heparin effect. Management involves correcting underlying causes, administering protamine, and targeted replacement of specific coagulation components based on laboratory studies and clinical bleeding patterns.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from normal anticoagulation therapy and acute bleeding episodes.
In Context
- "Post-bypass coagulopathy required fresh frozen plasma and platelet transfusion." — Post-operative management
- "The patient's preexisting coagulopathy complicated the surgical bleeding management." — Perioperative complication