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The effect of hydroxyethyl starch on platelet aggregation in vitro
A M Blaicher1, W J Reiter, W Blaicher
1Department of Anesthesiology and General Intensive Care, University of Vienna, Austria. alex.blaicher@univie.ac.at
Anesthesia and Analgesia
|June 10, 1998
Summary
Hydroxyethyl starch (HES) minimally affects platelet aggregation in vitro at recommended clinical doses. This study found no significant impact on platelet function, suggesting HES is safe for hemostasis.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Hematology
Background:
- Hydroxyethyl starch (HES) is used clinically, with minimal effects on hemostasis at recommended doses.
- Previous research focused on in vivo HES effects on platelet function, leaving in vitro effects unexamined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vitro effect of hydroxyethyl starch (HES) on isolated platelet function.
- To determine if HES influences platelet aggregation at clinically relevant concentrations.
Main Methods:
- A photometrical method assessed platelet aggregation in platelet-rich plasma.
- Platelet aggregation was induced using collagen, epinephrine, adenosine diphosphate, or ristocetin.
Main Results:
- A dose-dependent decrease in platelet aggregation was observed with collagen and epinephrine at high HES concentrations.
- No significant effect on platelet aggregation was found with adenosine diphosphate or ristocetin.
- Observed effects on platelet aggregation occurred only at HES doses exceeding typical clinical use.
Conclusions:
- Hydroxyethyl starch (HES) does not significantly impact platelet aggregation in vitro at clinically recommended doses.
- The findings suggest HES has no clinically relevant influence on initial platelet aggregation.
- HES appears safe concerning platelet function in standard clinical applications.