There is growing evidence that the blood platelet count of a patient may be a decisive factor in the success of certain spinal surgeries. Platelets are small but important cells in blood vessels; they contain proteins essential for clotting, which minimizes blood loss throughout surgical procedures. Hence, medical professionals must ensure that the patient’s platelet count is within a normal range before any kind of spine surgery takes place.
What is the Significance of a Platelet Count?
Help Stopping Bleeding During Surgery
During the operation, a healthy platelet count can greatly reduce the chances of excessive bleeding, improving the chances of a successful procedure. Low platelet counts could lead to a longer operation, with additional risk from hemorrhage or an increased healing time. As such, a lower platelet count means doctors must be more diligent in monitoring the patient during surgery, and may require additional transfusions during the process.
Increase Accuracy of Surgery
The presence of a higher platelet count also increases the accuracy of operations due to reduced bleeding. When there is a lower platelet count, doctors may not be able to see exactly what’s going on; this can result in an incorrect diagnosis or an unsuccessful operation. Therefore, an ideal platelet count is essential for a successful spine surgery, improving both accuracy and safety.
What Causes Low Platelet Counts?
Liver Disease
Liver disease can be a major cause of low platelet counts. This can be due to a variety of causes, ranging from chronic alcoholism to diseases like hepatitis and cirrhosis. The presence of liver disease can lead to a reduced lifespan for platelets, resulting in lower platelet counts in the bloodstream.
Medication
Certain common medications can also reduce one’s platelet count. These include analgesics such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, as well as anticoagulants like warfarin. Additionally, chemotherapy and radiation treatments can also lead to an adverse affect on a patient’s platelet count, as they may damage and/or reduce the lifespan of already-present platelets.
How to Improve Platelet Counts?
Dietary Changes
One of the most effective ways to increase platelet count is to make dietary changes. Eating foods high in protein, vitamin C, and iron can be beneficial. Examples of such foods include lean meats like chicken and fish, leafy greens, nuts, and legumes. Additionally, incorporating foods rich in vitamin B12 and folic acid, such as citrus fruits, strawberries, and avocados, can also help.
Avoiding Certain Drugs
The consumption of some over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen, can reduce platelet counts. As such, it is important to be mindful of the medications that are being consumed, and to ensure that they are not hindering platelet production. Additionally, certain herbal supplements may also reduce platelet counts, so they should also be avoided.
People Also Ask
What is a Normal Platelet Count Range?
A normal platelet count range is generally between 150,000 and 450,000 per microliter.
What Causes Low Platelets?
Low platelets can be caused by a wide range of factors, such as liver disease, certain medications, and radiation therapy.
How Long Does It Take for Platelet Count to Go Up?
It can take several weeks for platelet count to go up, depending on the underlying cause.
How Can I Increase My Platelets Naturally?
Eating foods high in protein, vitamin C, and iron, avoiding certain medications, and incorporating foods rich in vitamin B12 and folic acid can help to increase platelet count.
Does Platelet Count Affect Surgery?
Yes, platelet count can greatly affect the success of a surgical procedure. A lower platelet count can cause excessive bleeding, a longer operation, inaccurate diagnosis, and increased risk.
Final Words
Blood platelets play an important role in the success of surgical procedures, particularly spine surgeries. It is essential that medical professionals verify that the patient’s platelet count is within a normal range before going ahead with any kind of operation. Making dietary modifications and avoiding certain drugs, such as ibuprofen, can help to increase platelet count. Ultimately, it is important to understand the significance of platelet count in order for successful surgeries to be carried out.