Assessment of coagulation before and after packed red blood cell transfusion in dogs using thromboelastography.
Purpose
The purpose of this clinical trial is to assess the effectiveness of thromboelastography in dogs receiving blood transfusions.
Background
Thromboelastography (TEG) variables are strongly influenced by
hematocrit. This may be due to direct effects of red blood cells on clot
formation, or
may be due to the effects of red blood cell content on
whole blood viscosity. We believe the TEG is altered by changes in red
cell mass independent of whole blood
viscosity.TEG is becoming an increasingly popular methodology for assessment of whole blood coagulation in veterinary species as well as humans. As its use is
increasing, limitations or biases of the instrument need to be understood so that the information gathered can be correctly interpreted in the clinical setting. In this study we would like to study canine anemia of any cause requiring non-urgent, non-intraoperativepacked red blood cell transfusion in the ICU.
Inclusion criteria
To qualify for enrollment in this study, the following criteria must be met:
- Anemic dogs hospitalized at the Ohio State Veterinary Medical Center for red blood cell transfusion (packed or whole blood)
Study Design
Anemic dogs hospitalized for red blood cell transfusion (packed or whole blood) will have one 4.5mL citrated blood tube drawn prior to transfusion and one identical sample drawn after transfusion. The blood will be run on the TEG 30 minutes after phlebotomy. Samples will have viscosity measured shortly after TEG is run. The method of phlebotomy will be standardized, but the site of phlebotomy will be at the discretion of the attending clinician (jugular will be preferred if no clinical objection).
These blood draws will be coordinated with phlebotomy for other samples (blood typing, PCV/TS to minimize needle sticks beyond what would be normally clinically indicated.
Client Compensation
- Cost associated with the blood collection will be covered. There is no financial incentive for this trial. Clients are responsible for all cost related to hospitalization and treatment/supportive care.
Contact Information
Edward Cooper
Phone: (614)514-9143
E-mail: Edward [dot] Cooper [at] cvm [dot] osu [dot] edu
