The diagnostic significance of the microhematocrit as an office screening test

The microhematocrit provides accurate and reproducible test results. This laboratory procedure is useful not only in determining the hematocrit value, but also in the identification of conditions that may be of primary interest to the clinician. The information it provides is valuable in treatment planning, in choosing an anesthetic technique, and in helping to avoid operative and postoperative complications. This test can be easily and inexpensively performed and can be incorporated into the normal office routine with little difficulty.