The effects of cold on hemostasis

In vitro coagulation times and in vivo bleeding times were proportionally prolonged as the rabbit ear temperature was lowered from ambient temperature to 1 degree C. Cooling of the ear caused an increase in bleeding rather than the decrease generally attributed to cold application. The effects of temperature on the various aspects of hemostasis are discussed, and the pertinent literature is reviewed. An optimal nonfreezing cold temperature which could consistently enhance hemostasis could not be determined.