Abstract: Investigating Factor Deficiency and Platelet Function Using Sonorheometry; Study of Patients with Coagulation Disorders (2011 SACNAS National Conference)

Friday, October 28, 2011

Hall 1-2 (San Jose Convention Center)

Michelle Jackson, BS , Biology/Chemistry, Johnson C. Smith University , Charlotte, NC

Michael Lawrence, PhD, BA , Biomedical Engineering , University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA

Xiefan Lin-Schmidt, PhD , Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA

Will Mauldin, PhD , Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA

Francesco Viola, PhD , Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA

Today there is no set method to treat patients with coagulation disorders. When patients have these disorders there is increased risk of death during surgical procedures.

The objective was to prove that a sonorheometry device could detect the different deficiencies in the blood, improving the chances of proper treatment and surgical outcomes. It is also anticipated that use of the sonorheometry will improve cost efficiency and increase productivity.

Coagulation cascades were examined to explore the most important deficiencies. The experiment focused on factors 2(II), 8(VIII), 10(X) and 12(XII). Using sonorheometry, tests were run which tested the stiffness of blood clots by sending sound waves through the blood. Changes in echoes using the sonorheometry device were used to document clotting.

Data showed that the sonorheometry can tell the difference between the properties of blood clots and if the patients have clotting issues. The data demonstrated that most of the patients from the coagulation lab fell below the normal Platelet Function Index. In these patients coagulation disorder was evident.

The hypothesis, that the sonorheometry device would detect factor efficiencies, was correct. The sonorheometry device may be useful as a diagnostic tool.