Coagulation and fibrinolysis in multiple trauma after early heparinizing

In 27 multiple trauma patients receiving standard shock management and intensive care, coagulation and fibrinolysis were investigated after early heparinization. The general coagulation tests did not imply any impaired clotting function. Platelets and factors I, II, and V decreased without induction of hypocoagulability. There was considerable decrease in plasminogen, whereas FDP ranged within normal; thus, a hyperplasminemia can be excluded. Antithrombin III remained within normal range; even in nonsurvivors there was no depletion, although their antithrombin III activity was significantly lower. In comparison to 50 trauma patients - a comparable group with regard to trauma patterns, shock management, and intensive care - there were no significant differences in volume requirements or mortality rate. Whether early heparinization is effective in preventing disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) related organ failure remains to be seen.