Global hemostasis in pregnancy: are we using thromboelastography to its full potential?

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Hematology
• Anesthesiology

Background:

• Pregnancy induces physiological hypercoagulability, altering hemostatic balance.
• This altered hemostasis can lead to abnormalities and complications during pregnancy.
• Conventional tests inadequately assess pregnancy-related hemostatic status.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical role of hemostatic assessment in pregnancy complications.
• To advocate for Thromboelastography (TEG) as a superior diagnostic tool.
• To address barriers hindering the widespread adoption of TEG in clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• TEG provides a global analysis of the dynamic coagulation process, including fibrinolysis.
• It measures clot formation, platelet interaction, and clot strengthening.
• TEG allows for in vitro therapy guidance and clinical decision support.

Main Results:

• TEG offers a more comprehensive assessment than conventional tests like PT and aPTT.
• It effectively monitors hemostatic status in pregnancy-related complications.
• TEG has demonstrated significant clinical impact in recent years.

Conclusions:

• TEG is a valuable tool for assessing hemostasis in pregnancy and its complications.
• Increased investment in TEG research and standardization is needed.
• Wider adoption of TEG can improve clinical decision-making in obstetric care.