Abstract
Dextran infusion causes an increased lysability of ex vivo thrombi. This increased lysability was accompanied by a change in the distribution of 51Cr-labeled platelets. Rather than being localized to the head of the thrombus, after dextran infusion the platelets are found to be more evenly distributed. This change in platelet distribution is secondary to an effect of dextran on platelet function, probably via previously demonstrated impairment of the function of factor VIII. The increase in thrombus lysability is probably due to the change in platelet function.