Platelet function in cardiothoracic surgery and cardiology

Blood platelets have a number of vital functions relating to blood coagulation. Platelets become exhausted and consumed during surgery, which can lead to bleeding problems both during and after the procedure. On the other hand, drugs that inhibit platelets are given to prevent thrombosis, e.g. in patients at risk of myocardial infarction. We have developed advanced protocols to measure all the important functions of platelets with flow cytometry, and use them to study platelet function in patients with cardiovascular disease. Some examples are during open heart surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass, and how exercise affects platelet function in patients with coronary artery disease. Our goal with this project is to provide knowledge to advance the treatment of patients with cardiovascular disease in order to minimise the risk for both bleeding and thrombosis.