PRE-OPERATIVE COAGULATION TESTING

Any pet undergoing a surgical procedure in which bleeding may occur should be evaluated pre-operatively for any defect in the blood's ability to clot. Excessive bleeding can cause major complications. There are many diseases that can cause bleeding problems in your pet. These include, but are not limited to:

Low Platelet Count

There are many causes for a decreased platelet count. A complete blood count (CBC) is included in your pet's pre-operative evaluation and a platelet count will be performed as well as a manual evaluation of the platelets if needed.

Poor Platelet Function

This is usually caused by an inherit defect called Von-Willebrands Disease. If your pet is a breed commonly at risk, we will recommend this prior to surgery.

Clotting Factor Deficiencies

In addition to platelets, there is a cascade of events that stops bleeding in the body. Most of these coagulation factors are made in the liver and can be evaluated using tests called PT (Prothrombin Time) and a PTT (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time). Deficiencies of these factors can be caused by:

Genetic Deficiencies - Testing is especially important in young pets

Certain Medications

Liver Disease - Testing should always be performed in senior pets or ill pets undergoing surgical procedures.

Because of the severe consequences of excessive bleeding during surgery, we recommend the PT and aPTT tests be performed on your pet. A cost of $30.00

I understand that by declining these tests, the veterinarian has no way to access the ability of my pet's blood to clot and prevent excessive bleeding. I also understand that if there is a problem with my pet's clotting ability that declining these tests may result in a serious bleeding problem which may lead to increased costs of treatment and an increased risk of complications for my pet and I assume full responsibility for that choice. I also understand that the tests available are not completely comprehensive and that other bleeding abnormalities can occur for which these test are not designed to uncover and results are not guaranteed.

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