Coagulation

Hemostasis (coagulation) is a complex process in which multiple enzymes and proteins regulate blood flow and clot formation. Coagulation (clot formation), fibrinolysis and platelet aggregation are a part of this process. Fibrinolysis is a normal body process that keeps naturally occurring blood clots from growing and causing problems.

Coagulation factors have been implicated as independent factors in the development of myocardial infarction, stroke and deep vein thrombosis in some patients.

With the increasing incidence of cardiovascular diseases, this discovery has brought what was a rather lackluster discipline into the limelight. The intensive investigation of coagulation processes has uncovered a number of other conditions in which coagulation factors are implicated, such as: post surgical bleeding due to the use of aspirin or Plavix, spontaneous abortion and pregnancy problems.

Demand for rapid decentralized coagulation testing is increasing. The number of patients needing coagulation testing is growing. More patients are using anticoagulants following implantation of mechanical heart valves or after atrial fibrillation. More recently patients are using antithrombotic agents after, or to prevent, deep venous thrombosis, arterial or pulmonary embolism, stroke, angina pectoris, and myocardial infarction. There is also increasing pressure to return results to clinicians rapidly so that anticoagulant therapy can be adjusted.