Etomidate and thiopental inhibit platelet function in patients undergoing infrainguinal vascular surgery

Abstract

In the present study, etomidate and, to a minor extent, thiopental offered significant platelet inhibitory properties. Anesthetic-induced platelet inhibition may lead to higher transfusion rates and prolonged operation times. Therefore, anesthetic-related platelet inhibitory properties should be considered when searching for the anesthetic agent of choice, especially in patients with compromised hemostasis and co-existing bleeding disorders.