Significance of the Rate of Decrease in Fibrinogen Level after Total Hepatectomy in Dogs

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
An initial gradual decrease in fibrinogen level was observed after 1-stage total hepatectomy in 17 dogs which suggests a gradual "natural" decay rate for fibrinogen. A secondary, approximately 10-fold acceleration in rate of fibrinogen disappearance began after a variable period in most untreated dogs, particularly in longer survivors. This rapid terminal decrease in fibrinogen level was related to time of onset of shock and was associated with similar decreases in other measurements of clotting factors. No accelerated phase was observed in 7 dogs given intravenous heparin after hepatectomy or in 4 totally eviscerated dogs. The implications of these findings are discussed.