[Coagulation-physiological studies on the prevention of thromboembolism with dextran 60. II. Changes in coagulation and fibrinolysis]

Abstract

The postoperative behavior of different parameters of coagulation and fibrinolysis have been studied in three groups of 20 patients each. Group A got only 4-hydroxycumarin, group B 500 ml Dextran 60 intraoperatively in addition to that, group C 500 ml Dextran 60 during surgery and on the 1., 2., 4., 7. and 10. postoperative day. The results show that the hypercoagulability which occurs immediately after surgery can be prevented by infusion of Dextran 60. On the other hand there is no evidence that Dextran 60 may cause a consumptive coagulability. There is only little influence on fibrinolysis, so that no defect of haemostasis can be expected. So it is possible to use Dextran 60 both for bridging over the phase of early embolism after surgery until the change to other anticoagulants and as a substance which can be applicated for a longer period of time in prophylaxis of thromboembolism. It is referred to the additional properties of Dextran 60 in prevention of thrombosis due to reduction of blood viscosity and improvement of microcirculation.