Factor XIII levels in relation to gynaecological operations

In 25 patients with vaginal hysterectomies and 14 with abdominal hysterectomies, Factor XIII activity in the antiseruminhibition test of Bohn and Haupt was measured in the first 7 postoperative days. Both groups showed a statistically significant reduction in activity (40--50%) which started at 2 h after operation and lasted until the 3rd postoperative day. The route of operation did not significantly affect the results and neither did the phase of the cycle nor the age of the patient.