| Abstract: | Although platelets have an important role in haemostasis and in thrombosis, what happens to platelet function postoperatively is not well understood. We investigated platelet function in the perisperative period by measuring total platelet count and several products released by activated platelets, thromboxane, betathromboglobulin and lyso-platelet activating factor (lyso-PAF). The only changes detected were a significant rise in total platelet count between 48 h and 5 days postoperation, and a progressive fall in lyso-PAF up to 48 h post-operation. It is possible that other changes may have occurred, but were an immediate effect and were not apparent at time of the first blood sample 2–3 h post-operation. |
