Veterinary student Chungnam National University Yuseong-gu, Taejon-jikhalsi, Republic of Korea
Abstract: Background - Thrombocytosis and thromboelastographic (TEG) changes indicative of hypercoagulability are commonly observed during the first two weeks post-splenectomy in dogs. In humans, thrombocytosis typically peaks 7 to 20 days post-splenectomy, and returns to normal values within weeks to months. The timeline for these changes remains unknown in dogs. Hypothesis/Objectives - We hypothesize that thrombocytosis and hypercoagulability would resolve by 28 days post-splenectomy. Animals - Five client-owned dogs were included in the study, comprising four diagnosed with non-neoplastic splenic nodules and one with hemangiosarcoma. All dogs underwent splenectomy. Methods - In this prospective study, blood samples were collected on the day of surgery (day 0) and on days 2, 7, 14 and 28 post-splenectomy. TEG analysis and platelet counts were performed on each of these days. Results - Platelet counts were significantly elevated on days 7, 14 and 28 compared to day 0 (P < 0.05), with no significant difference between days 14 and 28 (P = 0.54). Both MA and G values were significantly increased on days 7 and 14 compared to day 0 (P < 0.05) and significantly decreased on day 28 compared to day 14 (P = 0.01). Conclusions and Clinical Importance - Thrombocytosis and hypercoagulability persist up to 28 days post-splenectomy in most dogs. By day 28, although thrombocytosis remains, the resolution of certain clot strength parameters suggests a gradual recovery from hypercoagulability, emphasizing the need for further long-term studies.
