More Selective Antenatal Coagulation Screening Tests Could Reduce Costs and Save Time without Compromising Maternal Safety

Abstract

Antenatal coagulation testing is commonly performed and yet there is no evidence on which to base practice. This retrospective review of testing and the results obtained in a one-year period at the Southern General Hospital, Glasgow, UK, showed that the majority of the tests were normal regardless of the clinical indication for testing. However, there was a significant association between thrombocytopaenia and an abnormal coagulation result (p<0.001). This analysis showed that the platelet count might be used to select patients who require subsequent coagulation studies without compromising maternal or fetal safety and with attendant savings in time and money.