coagulopathy
Pronunciation: koh-ag-yuh-LOP-uh-thee
Impaired blood clotting function commonly encountered in cardiac surgery patients requiring specific management strategies.
Full Definition
Coagulopathy in cardiovascular surgery refers to abnormal blood coagulation that can manifest as either bleeding tendency or thrombotic complications. Multiple factors contribute to coagulopathy in cardiac surgery patients, including preoperative anticoagulant medications, cardiopulmonary bypass-induced platelet dysfunction, hemodilution, hypothermia, and consumption of clotting factors. Management requires systematic evaluation of coagulation studies, platelet function, and fibrinogen levels. Treatment may involve blood product transfusion, factor concentrates, antifibrinolytic agents, or reversal agents. Understanding coagulopathy is essential for optimizing hemostasis and minimizing both bleeding and thrombotic complications in the perioperative period.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguished from specific conditions like hemophilia or thrombocytopenia.
In Context
- "Postoperative coagulopathy was managed with fresh frozen plasma and platelet transfusion." — intensive care unit note
- "The patient's preoperative coagulopathy secondary to warfarin therapy was reversed with vitamin K and prothrombin complex concentrate." — preoperative assessment