Hemostatic evaluation of Sarns/3M-VAD implantation in calves.

: The authors evaluated the potential for thrombotic complications arising from implantation of a ventricular assist device (Sarns/3M-VAD) in four calves. Coagulation screening tests (prothrombin time [PT], partial thromboplastin time [PTT], thrombin time [TT]), fibrinogen levels, and antithrombin III functional activity were found to be of little value as predictors of the degree of activation of the hemostatic system. However, platelet counts, adenosine diphosphate (ADP)- and collagen-induced platelet aggregation, and thromboxane (TXB2) levels were good indicators of changes in platelet reactivity. Platelet counts (initial value 6 x 10(5) rose, and were associated with increased rate and extent of ADP- and collagen-induced platelet aggregation, which remained elevated during the entire 25 day postimplantation period. The first 5 days postimplantation revealed a typical acute inflammatory response, with increased platelet levels, but with TXB2 levels significantly decreased during this period. A monoclonal antibody based bovine D-dimer assay and Western blot studies indicated a small but significant increase in circulating bovine D-dimer, indicating localized fibrin formation and its dissolution.