Routine Preoperative Coagulation Tests in Children Undergoing Elective Surgery or Invasive Procedures: Are They Still Necessary?

Abstract

Routine coagulation screening before surgery or invasive procedures to predict perioperative bleeding in unselected patients is not recommended. Our study emphasizes that selective preoperative testing is more appropriate. Selective criteria for consideration of the latter includes physical examination, type of surgery, family and bleeding history, and concomitant use of antiplatelet and anti-thrombotic therapy.