Massive platelet transfusion after splenectomy in a case of myelofibrosis

A patient with myelofibrosis complicated by massive splenomegaly underwent splenectomy to alleviate the increasing transfusion requirements and iron overload. The platelets exhibited qualitative defects pre-operatively. Following splenectomy the patient bled profusely and required massive blood and platelet transfusions. The postoperative haemorrhage was controlled by giving sufficient platelets to normalize the platelet aggregation.